Researcher Hypersonic Ballistic Experiments

You will be working in the research group Personal Protection & Explosives Safety (PPES), more specifically within the Ballistics Research Laboratory (LBO). The laboratory consists of approximately [number] colleagues with a highly diverse educational background (vocational, applied sciences, and academic), all involved in experimental research involving small, medium and large caliber weapons, laser weapons, and explosives. Safety, quality, efficiency, and confidentiality are essential in our work.

The service portfolio of the Personal Protection & Explosives Safety research group consists of two main areas:

• Testing and certification of protection concepts for vehicles and personnel for (inter)national industrial clients, such as suppliers;
• R&D for Defence and (inter)national companies. This research focuses on new ammunition and protection concepts and is carried out in close collaboration with colleagues from other research groups.

For the R&D track, we are looking for a new colleague! As a Lead Scientist, you will be scientifically responsible for the preparation, execution, and completion of ballistic experiments. You will do this together with very experienced colleagues. You will report to the Project Manager.

You design and build experimental research setups, combining advanced acceleration techniques with mechanical, electronic, and optical components.
In collaboration with the client, you will define an experiment matrix and develop a measurement plan. Reporting is done together with colleagues. You ensure that research results are delivered on time, to a high standard, and are clearly presented to clients. The experiments are highly diverse in nature and require a thorough understanding of the client’s context. This enables you to actively think along with internal and external clients to achieve the best, most efficient, and effective results.

You are someone who gains energy from hands-on work and can effortlessly switch between practical tasks and working with computers. You work accurately, document findings clearly, and enjoy creating structure and oversight in your reports. You are also able to adapt quickly. With your pragmatic mindset, you always look ahead and actively seek the best and most workable solution. You have a critical and analytical eye for both design and execution.
In addition, you enjoy working collaboratively: you feel comfortable in a team, communicate easily with colleagues, and know how to make a professional and pleasant impression in interactions with clients as well. You are motivated to apply your talents within the defense domain.

What you also bring:

• A completed Bachelor's or Master's degree (HBO/WO level) in a technical discipline, complemented by several years of relevant hands-on work experience;
• Demonstrable experience creating CAD designs in SolidWorks is a plus;
• Knowledge of machining techniques and experience outsourcing turning and milling work to external partners for product realization is a plus;
• Experience performing quality inspections and assessing delivered items against specifications and finish is a plus;
• You speak Dutch fluently (minimum C1 level) and are also able to communicate in English with our international clients.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile? Then we would be happy to receive your application.

Note: Working hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Flexible working and working from home are only possible for reporting activities, provided the classification level of the report allows it.

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 € 3,500 and € 4,700 (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 plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various employee networks that foster connection and give advice.
• 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 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• 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 May, 2026. 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.

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.