Scientist Cyber security | The Hague, Eindhoven, Groningen

We’d love to hear from you—even if you don’t meet 100% of the profile below.

A strong digital future for the Netherlands and Europe is unthinkable without research and innovation. As part of our team, you play a crucial role in ensuring secure and robust ICT networks and services, both today and in the future.
With expertise in IT and Operational Technology (OT) Resilience, vulnerability research, and Security by Design, you work closely with partners such as universities, other research institutes, service providers, and product vendors, both nationally and internationally.
Our contributions range from independent advice to exploratory research into promising technologies. We also adapt technology for a specific client or context, for example by developing a proof of concept. Our research clients include the defense sector, financial institutions, telecom service providers, and parties in the high-tech and energy sectors.

What will you be doing?
As a Medior Researcher Cyber Security at TNO, you are responsible for developing advanced solutions to improve the resilience of IT and/or OT systems, with a strong focus on preventing cyberattacks that could impact vital infrastructures.
For example, you might work on innovations in vulnerability research to identify and address potential weaknesses in systems, or you may be involved in designing and implementing security-by-design principles to make software robust and secure from the outset—with self-healing mechanisms to automatically detect and remediate vulnerabilities.
You will operate within multidisciplinary teams, applying your in-depth expertise to develop and implement technologies that make a real difference in protecting organizations from cyber threats.

Thinking in innovative solutions comes naturally to you. With a deep-rooted passion for technology and an unstoppable drive to understand how systems work, you are the expert who loves to dive deep. You share your insights and ideas enthusiastically—both within project teams and in interaction with clients and colleagues.
When you encounter challenges, you don’t hesitate to seek help, enabling your team to tackle them together. You will work from our modern headquarters near The Hague Central Station, our office in Eindhoven, or our location in Groningen.
What else we expect from you:

• A completed university Master’s degree or PhD, preferably in cyber security, computer science, informatics, or a similar technical discipline;
• At least 4 years of professional experience in the field of cyber security, working with complex ICT infrastructures and/or security solutions;
• A drive to stay up to date with the latest technological developments and a constant search for innovation;
• A hacker mindset, looking not only at the front end but also under the hood of systems;
• Excellent communication skills, both within the team and in interactions with (international) partners and clients.

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 € 4.500,- and € 6.600,- (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.

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.
• 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 the 12th of October, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. 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.

A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.

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.