Internship | Computer-Aided Cryptography

Have you always wanted to contribute to data security and privacy? Become a master thesis intern at the Applied Cryptography and Quantum Algorithms department at TNO, where you will conduct your research at the forefront of cryptography! Cryptography is the building block for secure computations and communications. Designing and implementing cryptography is an error-prone process. Even if the design is secure, the implementation of the cryptographic specification can be vulnerable due to programming mistakes. It is possible that the implementation diverges from the specification, but even when it is functionally correct, it can still leak information through side-channel vulnerabilities.

Recent efforts in the research community have focused on computer-aided cryptography, where formal methods are introduced to provide formal guarantees of

• the correctness of cryptographic proofs,
• security properties of cryptographic protocols,
• the correctness of software implementations of cryptographic specifications, and
• the absence of side-channel vulnerabilities in software implementations of cryptographic specifications.

Computer-aided cryptography is a fast-growing area of research where many research questions still remain unanswered. This is where you come in!
Possible research directions include, but are not limited to:

• automated protocol analysis,
• cryptographic proof verification,
• secure software compilation, and
• verification of correctness properties and side-channel security of cryptographic implementations.

You thrive on conducting research that will make a mark on information security. As you’ll be spending between six and nine months researching for your Master’s thesis, you are highly motivated to contribute to the fast-moving field of cryptography and information security in a multi-disciplinary environment. And you enjoy learning from the best and working with colleagues from different backgrounds.
Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A University Bachelor’s Degree. You must be in the final phase of your Master’s Degree training in mathematics or computer science.
• Experience with programming and cryptography.
• Experience with, or a keen interest in formal methods / computer-aided cryptography, helping you master the topic within the first few months of your internship.
• An excellent command of English at academic level.

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.

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