Internship | Next-Gen Photonic System Design for Optical Communication and Sensing

Advancing the frontiers of optical system design, this internship contributes to next-generation technologies in sensing, communication, and metrology—key enablers of a more connected, data-driven world. By co-optimizing free-space optics, metasurfaces, and integrated photonics, the project challenges conventional design silos and opens new pathways for compact, efficient, and robust optical systems. The intern will help pioneer novel design strategies—powered by inverse design and AI-driven optimization—that could redefine how we capture, manipulate, and transmit light in real-world applications.

As part of the Codesign project, the intern will support the development of innovative optical systems that integrate free-space optics, metasurfaces, and integrated photonics. The intern will contribute to the core tool development, use-case selection, and benchmarking, and be responsible for running large-scale simulations using numerical tools such Lumerical, Zemax and OptiSlang and performing initial data processing. The position offers a hands-on learning experience with flexibility to explore deeper technical aspects and contribute to design discussions, depending on the intern’s interest and pace.

The intern will be immersed in a collaborative environment that bridges academic exploration with real-world application. The team brings together experts working at the intersection of research and industry, where ideas are not only developed but also translated into technologies that can be deployed in spaceborne systems or advanced manufacturing environments. Whether enabling more efficient optical sensors for semiconductor metrology or designing robust optical links for satellite communication, the work is grounded in real use-cases with tangible societal impact. This unique setting offers the intern a chance to contribute to innovations that are both intellectually challenging and practically transformative.

We’re looking for a motivated and curious Master’s student who thrives in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and actively engages in improving the methods behind them. A willingness to learn, communicate openly, and take initiative in both technical and conceptual challenges is essential.

Required skills:

• Master’s degree (in progress) in Physics engineering, Applied Mathematics and Optimization, or Machine Learning.
• Solid understanding of ray optics, wave optics or electromagnetics.
• Programming or scripting experience for data processing (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• Experience with numerical simulation tools (e.g., FDTD, FEM, RCWA).
• Familiarity with Lumerical or Zemax is a plus.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship 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 internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals 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, equity 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.