Internship | Metasurface Based Filter for Compressive Sensing Techniques

Space spectrometers can accurately analyse the spectrum of the atmosphere on any locations on Earth. Such information is used by scientists to elaborate accurate models to predict the effects on the environment and climate. Space instruments, which are often very complex and expensive, must also be extremely reliable. Therefore, any simplification of the instrument, reduction of its mass and size and reduction of processing power on board is of paramount importance. This project aims at the elaboration of an innovative concept of space spectrometer, that addresses all the above critical aspects, based on compressive sensing techniques enabled by metasurface filters.

The internship project will focus on the design and experimental characterization of one of the enabling key components of the innovative spectrometer concept elaborated at TNO: a metasurface filter to perform the required spectral measurements for the compressive sensing algorithm, used in the accurate reconstruction of the atmosphere spectrum.
The student will perform the following tasks:

• design and optimization of the metasurface filter;
• experimental characterization in the lab of a hardware demonstrator produced by TNO;
• accurate analysis of the results.

During the internship project, the student will be assisted by TNO staff members working on optical metasurfaces and space instruments.

The candidate should have a good background knowledge of Electromagnetic Theory and Optics.
He should preferably have some experience with:

• commercial electromagnetic modelling tools (e.g. ANSYS HFSS and/or ANSYS LUMERICAL and/or CST STUDIO and/or COMSOL);
• programming in MATLAB/PHYTON;
• experience in optical lab tests.

This internship is best suited for MSc final projects, with a duration of 8 months.

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 agreemnt 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.