Internship | AI-based Learning with Scarce Data for Re-X Decision Support

The Dutch Semicon supply chain is currently able to reuse about 80% of its valuable modules and components through existing Re X processes (reuse, repair, remanufacture). The remaining 20% is lost due to organizational and process related limitations, while raw materials are becoming scarcer worldwide and geopolitical tensions are increasing. During this internship, you will directly contribute to improving circularity within the Dutch Semicon supply chain by researching AI methods that can deliver valuable decision support and insights despite limited or incomplete data. In doing so, you help ensure that part of the remaining 20% can still be reused successfully, contributing to the sustainability of the high tech sector.

You will investigate and test one or more AI methods that enable learning from scarce data within Re X processes. This is essential because collecting all required data from suppliers is challenging, while our AI Remanufacturing Assistant (ARMA) must still be able to provide reliable decision support. By exploring data efficient AI techniques, you ensure that ARMA remains robust under conditions of limited data availability. Since ML/DL techniques often depend on data quality and quantity, we expect it will be necessary to explore classical or hybrid AI techniques. Within this assignment, you have the freedom to shape the technical direction based on your interests and the expertise of your university supervisor.
 
During your thesis internship, you will work in TNO’s Data Ecosystems department, a department focused on large scale, secure, and sovereign data sharing aligned with European values. The department plays a leading role in digital data sharing concepts such as Digital Product Passports, which will also be relevant to this project. You will be supervised from the Groningen office, where you will have the opportunity to work on site on your thesis. In addition, you will collaborate (mainly remotely) with the team establishing a triage center in Eindhoven for analyzing and making decisions about Semicon components entering Re X processes, giving your research a direct industrial and practical context.

The ideal candidate for this thesis project is in the final phase of a Master’s in AI and has an interest in non‑standard AI techniques. This candidate is curious, enjoys exploring new angles, and has experience with programming in Python.
We expect that you can start as soon as possible. The project is designed as a 6 to 9‑month full‑time assignment (with some flexibility), ending no later than December 1st. To support effective collaboration, we expect it is feasible for you to work from the TNO office in Groningen at least twice a week.

Additionally:

• Final phase of a Master’s in AI or CS with AI specialization (or other programme that provides experience with AI techniques not solely dependent on data).
• Interest in AI methods that do not rely on large amounts of high‑quality data.
• Clear communication and a results‑driven mindset.
• A drive for societal impact.
• Enthusiasm for working with experienced colleagues and experts.

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.