Internship | Robustness against adversarial AI

Image analysis has been revolutionized by the introduction of artificial intelligence and deep learning technology. Robustness of AI-technology is crucial in the high-stakes decision making fields of our defence, safety, and security organisations. There is a rising use of adversarial AI attacks, such as poisoning, which thwarts the robustness and trustworthiness of deep learning technology. In this project, we will investigate both technology to perform adversarial attacks in image analysis as well as novel methods to detect and/or counter such attacks.

This project is part of ongoing research at TNO and you will be fully integrated into our research group (Intelligent Imaging). The project will start with a deep-dive in recently published literature, to identify current methods for adversarial attacks and potential technology to detect and/or counter such attacks. Relevant datasets of military vehicles with manual annotations, both images and videos, are readily available for this project as part of our ongoing research. You will use these datasets to perform various adversarial attacks and evaluate different techniques to detect and/or counter these adversarial attacks. If time permits, we would like to study additional methods to train AI-technology to be robust against adversarial attacks, so that attack detection/countering might not even be necessary. In addition, we encourage your own initiative and are open for suggestions and new research directions related to this topic. The project will end with a written report of your recommendations (with possibility for conference/journal publication) and a presentation highlighting your results and future directions.

We are looking for a highly motivated MSc student with interest in image analysis and artificial intelligence technology. Ideally, you have a technical background and are, e.g., studying computer sciences, artificial intelligence, mathematics, physics, or a related field. Prior experience with image analysis, computer programming (Python), artificial intelligence / deep learning is appreciated.

Your supervision team will consist of two experienced TNO-colleagues who are actively involved in ongoing research projects at TNO. They have experience both in state-of-the-art image analysis research, as well as supervising BSc/MSc/PhD students in internships and graduate projects.

The project duration is flexible within the range of 6 to 12 months. Please mention in your application whether you are looking for an internship or a graduation project, the preferred duration of your project and your desired starting date.

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. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative working environment, with top experts as colleagues.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo- and hbo-students, 390 euro for mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Eight hours of leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet TNO-colleagues and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

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.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:

1. you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
2. the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.

• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.