Scientist Information Operations & Intelligence | The Hague

Conflicts and criminal/subversive activities around the world pose direct or indirect threats to the Netherlands. For our current and future security, TNO conducts research together with our security partners into the effective use of data, information, and intelligence to support optimal decision-making in complex situations. As a scientist, you contribute to designing and conducting innovative research and apply your knowledge of intelligence and decision-making. Concrete examples include research into hybrid warfare, tackling subversive crime, new operational approaches, and analyzing crisis situations. In this role, you will work within the research group Intelligence & Decision Support (IDS), part of the Defence, Safety & Security unit. Want to contribute to shaping our time as a Scientist in Information Operations & Intelligence? Read on!

As a scientist, you will participate in research projects with partners in the defense and security domain, such as the Ministry of Defence, the Police, and other organizations. In multidisciplinary teams, you will work on research questions that are more relevant than ever. In addition to building new knowledge, practical application is key. You will collect and analyze data and information (both quantitative and qualitative), develop and test concepts and models, and translate results into the operational world of the client. To do this, you will integrate the latest insights from various research disciplines—such as political science, public administration, econometrics, AI, and data science—to develop new models and concepts. These will be tested and validated in collaboration with Defence and other security organizations.

Examples of questions you might work on include: How can defense and security organizations detect and respond to manipulation of the information environment (e.g., disinformation and deepfakes)? What techniques can be used for this? How does intelligence contribute to effective action in today’s digital world? What innovative techniques are needed to accelerate the intelligence function and anticipate changes in time? How does decision-making work in the information environment? How do you monitor and measure effects in the information environment? You will be able to develop tailored approaches to such questions. To carry out your work, you will engage with various stakeholders and TNO experts. You will gather the necessary information through interviews, specially designed workshops, or (operational or synthetic) datasets. You can translate client challenges into practical, feasible, and impactful solutions.

All of this is done in collaboration with knowledgeable and highly motivated colleagues from the IDS department and various other departments within TNO. IDS is diverse, regularly organizes activities to exchange knowledge and experiences, and of course, to have fun both in and outside of work.

You are a team player with a strong sense of responsibility. You are curious and eager to seek out the information you need for your assignments. You have strong analytical skills—preferably both qualitative and quantitative—a high level of abstract thinking, and the ability to help translate science into practice. You can combine the perspectives of different end-users and experts. You have strong communication skills, enabling you to present conclusions clearly in text, presentations, diagrams, and data visualizations, and to facilitate expert workshops.

You are eager to learn, enjoy developing yourself, and are enthusiastic about encountering new information and tasks.

What you bring:

• An academic Master’s or PhD in fields such as Information Studies, Artificial Intelligence, Security and/or Intelligence Studies, Public Administration, Integrated Safety Studies, Sociology, Data Science, or Business Analytics & Quantitative Marketing.
• Relevant work experience, for example with qualitative and quantitative methods and research techniques, or additional knowledge and/or experience in information operations and intelligence, is a plus. However, recent graduates are also warmly encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrable affinity with the Defence and (societal) Security domain.
• Excellent communication skills in both Dutch and English, spoken and written.

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 3.400,- and € 4.100,- (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

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.

Please apply before August 26th, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on September 8th and 10th. The second interview round has been scheduled for September 22nd. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.

The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.

As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.