Internship | Training neural networks with rules and relations

Introduction
The Intelligent Imaging group at TNO is researching and developing methods to obtain situational understanding in an automated way by combining both state-of-the-art deep neural networks for e.g. object detection, image classification, and semantic segmentation, with methods for symbolic reasoning. An example of a library that we use for symbolic reasoning is Scallop.

What will be your role?
The assignment is about learning Scallop (or a similar reasoning library) and using rules or reasoning together with the output of a neural network. In this simple example, using the reasoning library Scallop, a model is trained to add two MNIST digits with a simple CNN and an addition rule. This is of course a simple working example, however, we see potential in such an approach. We hypothesize that by learning relations between objects (in space) or events (in time), the model generalizes better between to new scenes (spatial) or situations (timewise). For example, the model can recognize an unseen kitchen by reasoning over the presence of a fridge, a sink and a stove. More complex relations allow to learn more complex scenes or situations.

You are in the final stages of your master’s degree in artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, robotics, systems and control engineering, physics or a similar degree. You have some experience in computer vision, artificial intelligence and deep learning, and programming in Python. Next to technical expertise, we value communication skills, a results-driven attitude, and that you are motivated to publish your work.

The project is for a period of 6 to 12 months, during which you will have the ability to work from home as well as our office and you will receive an appropriate internship fee. Please mention in your application whether you are looking for a graduation project or an internship, your preferred start date and your preferred duration of the project.

Keywords here are: Deep Learning, Machine Learning, Symbolic Reasoning, AI, Computer Vision, Image Classification, Object Detection, Object Segmentation, PyTorch.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

Students must reside in the Netherlands before the start and also throughout the internship or graduation project at TNO.