Internship | Photonic Integrated Circuits for Laser Satellite Communication

Reliable global connectivity is essential for bridging communities, enabling secure data exchange, and supporting critical infrastructures. This internship contributes to that vision by advancing laser satellite communication—a technology that delivers high-speed links with minimal latency and enhanced security. You will work on photonic integrated circuits (PICs), a disruptive innovation replacing bulky optics with compact, stable solutions. These circuits enable precise beam tracking and support both classical and quantum communication, paving the way for resilient space networks. Your work will help shape the future of secure, sustainable connectivity for Earth and beyond.

As an intern, you will contribute to building the control system that enables our photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology to function in real-world conditions. Your main mission will be to design and implement a feedback loop that stabilizes optical beams using a fine steering mirror—critical for precise alignment in laser satellite communication. You’ll test this loop under real transmission conditions and ensure robust performance with and without data transfer. If time allows, you can also explore advanced functionalities such as symmetric links or quantum communication compatibility. Your work will directly impact the reliability of next-generation space communication systems.
You will join a multidisciplinary team of experts in photonics, optical communication, systems engineering, and space instrumentation. This collaborative environment offers access to cutting-edge knowledge and technologies, providing an exceptional opportunity to learn and contribute to innovations that will shape the future of secure, high-speed connectivity.

We are looking for a proactive and curious individual who thrives in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. Strong communication skills, problem-solving ability, and a hands-on mindset are essential to succeed in this role.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• Master’s-level education in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Solid foundation in optical systems and signal processing, with experience in beam alignment or control systems.
• Proficiency in programming for data acquisition and control (e.g., MATLAB, Python), ideally with GUI development experience.
• Understanding of optical communication technologies and modulation formats (OOK, QPSK, etc.).
• Familiarity with feedback control principles and system integration in experimental setups.

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.