Deputy Research Manager (Naval) Automation & Command Support

Safety is not a given. Sometimes, peace must be fought for. There is always a front line somewhere where history is being written. The impact of rising global tensions—especially the ongoing conflict in Ukraine—on our armed forces is significant. The demand for knowledge and technology from our founding partner, the Ministry of Defence, is evolving rapidly. The pace is increasing, and budgets for research and development are growing substantially. In parallel, attention to our national (domestic) security is intensifying, for example in the fight against escalating drug-related crime within our own country. Here, knowledge and technology make the difference—and we translate that into our mission.

To continue operating effectively and flexibly, and to provide even better service to our clients, the Defence, Safety & Security (DSS) unit will be reorganized into five divisions as of 1 January 2026, with research groups assigned to each.

The research group Unmanned Autonomous Systems is one of two new groups resulting from the split of the original Autonomous Systems & Robotics (AS&R) group. This split was necessary due to rapid growth.

Unmanned and autonomous systems include drones, unmanned (semi-)autonomous ground vehicles, collaborative teams of heterogeneous assets and swarms, self-navigating frigates, and advanced sensor systems. These technologies are rapidly redefining the execution of civil and military operations. AS&R specialized in the enabling technologies, structured around five key technology lines:

• Manning & Automation (M&A) – Research and development of AI-driven planning and decision-support solutions that reduce crew workload and accelerate decision-making during complex missions.
• Signature Management Systems (SMS) – Research and development of innovative models and decision-support systems that minimize the detectability of naval vessels.
• Position, Navigation & Timing (PNT) – Research and development of robust alternatives to GPS, enabling units to know their exact location even in GPS-denied environments.
• Maritime Uncrewed Systems (MUS) – Research and development of mission autonomy for UAVs, USVs, and UUVs, expanding reconnaissance, surveillance, and logistics at sea without additional risk to the mothership.
• Combat Uncrewed Ground Systems & Robotics (CUGS&R) – Research and development of situational awareness, navigation, and task autonomy for ground vehicles and robots, mission autonomy for teams of UxVs and swarms that collaborate independently toward shared mission goals and integrate seamlessly with military and security teams.

With a multidisciplinary team of nearly 70 scientists and engineers, AS&R rapidly translated fundamental research into practical solutions—from demonstrators and prototypes to fully operational systems. Thanks to close collaboration with government, Defence, industry, and universities, these innovations quickly reach the field and make a direct impact.

Following the split of AS&R into two research groups on 1 January 2026, one group will focus on the Manning & Automation (M&A) and Signature Management Systems (SMS) technology lines. This new group will consist of approximately 35 enthusiastic researchers and engineers, with expected growth in the coming years. We are looking for a (part-time) Deputy Research Manager to co-lead this group alongside the Research Manager.

What will you be doing?
In this dynamic environment, you will support and guide a forming group of professionals as Deputy Research Manager. Your responsibilities span all aspects of the department—from strategic development and portfolio management, optimizing collaboration with other departments, monitoring projects and outcomes, to supporting the personal development of team members. You will act as the Research Manager in their absence.

You and the Research Manager will divide responsibilities in consultation. As the department grows and new team members join, you will help maintain and foster an inspiring and motivating work environment. This includes contributing to effective onboarding programs, facilitating strong social connections, and creating calm and stability.

You will work closely with the (Deputy) Research Manager of the other new group emerging from AS&R to ensure alignment between the two teams. You will also promote collaboration with other teams within and outside the division. Joint formal and informal events will be organized in consultation with team members.

You’re ready to take the next step into a leadership role.

Helping others reach their full potential energizes you. You’re skilled at coaching, connecting, and motivating others—and yourself. You recognize individual strengths, plan independently and systematically, and set the right priorities quickly.

You listen with genuine interest, engage in dialogue, and think along with others. This helps you discover the strengths of individuals and how they can complement each other to form effective teams. You’re full of ideas to improve collaboration.

Your goal? Satisfied employees delivering high-quality work.

You also bring:

• A strong interest in research and technology, enabling you to quickly understand the work of our professionals.
• Knowledge of or affinity with the expertise of the original Autonomous Systems & Robotics group and/or relevant domain knowledge (e.g., Defence), which is essential to link content and process effectively.
• A collaborative mindset and a focus on team cohesion. You foster a positive atmosphere and communicate easily, with attention to collective interests.
• A willingness to learn, reflect, and adjust accordingly.
• Initiative to address relevant topics such as stress and feedback.
• Proficiency in both Dutch and English.
• Preferably, a relevant external network.
• Experience in establishing collaborations with industry is a plus.

You have a background that aligns well with the department, allowing you to participate in substantive discussions. You have experience developing propositions and translating conceptual knowledge into products and practical applications (B2B, B2G).

This position is for approximately three days per week. If you are appointed full-time, the remaining two days can be dedicated to project and/or program management within the department.

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 annual salary between € 85.000,- and € 110.000,- (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 26th of November, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 4th of December, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 17th of December, 2025. 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.

Only applicable to internal applications:
If you are interested, we welcome your application. To qualify for an LD job, you are requested to write a reflection report in accordance with the Dutch or English format. Please upload your CV, covering letter and reflection report using the ‘apply now’ button. We will evaluate your match with the profile, on which you will receive feedback. Would you like to know more about the LD procedure? Read more, or contact the LD consultant.