Master Graduation Internship | ISAC Testbed Development, Experiment and Performance Assessment

About this position

At TNO, we have developed a basic Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) testbed using URSPs and aim to integrate it with our existing B5G/6G testbed. This way, we want to test the feasibility and scope of ISAC, determine use-cases and do sensitivity analysis on its performance with respect to change in number of nodes (transmitters and receivers), waveform parameters, object types, etc.

What will be your role?

Key activities of the proposed project include:

• To enhance the available ISAC testbed that enables both monostatic and bistatic sensing of nearby objects using 5G NR waveform generated using USRP(s).
• To integrate radio resource management solutions that addresses (sensing and communications) topology management, scheduling, beamforming with the testbed. This would emulate a more real-life scenario where communications and sensing would happen together.
• To utilise aforementioned testbed to conduct an extensive set of experiments of either AI/ML-based or heuristic management solutions for a range of relevant scenarios and possibly distinct optimisation timescales.
• To derive key insights and conclusions w.r.t. both the attainable performance and the sensitivity thereof w.r.t. selected scenario and management aspects and the performance trade-off between communication and sensing tasks.

This master graduation project follows a previous master graduation project, and involves closely working with TNO employees. Further, the project will be conducted as part of the large nationally funded research programme ‘Future Network Services’, bringing together >60 partners. The proposed MSc project is envisioned to involve collaborations/regular interactions with FNS partners.

What we expect from you

You are a graduate student pursuing a Master's degree, preferably in the direction of Electrical Engineering or Computer Science. You have affinity with / interest in mobile networks, computer simulations, machine learning and have programming experience. You have an enterprising, flexible and cooperative nature. You are also communicative, creative and innovative. Duration of the master graduation project is typically 9 months.

Key strengths we are looking for include:

• Familiarity with using hardware. You would be working with USRPs, antennas, and NUCs. You may be required to understand complex datasheets and integrate different components together.
• Previous knowledge/expertise in concepts such as 5G/6G, wireless communications, signal and radar processing, waveform designs.
• Ability to conduct research independently under mentorship/supervision.
• Fluency in English in speaking as well as writing.

What you'll get in return

An internship at TNO means working in an environment where substance and impact are central. You will become part of a knowledge organisation where research and practice come together, and where experts collaborate on solutions to current societal and technological challenges.

Your internship is a period in which you can discover what suits you, where your strengths lie and what you would like to learn next. You are part of a professional working environment, gain insight into how things work in practice, and have the opportunity to build experience that goes beyond this internship alone. For many students, an internship is therefore also a first step in discovering whether TNO could be a potential next step after graduation.

In addition, we offer you:

• A professional and innovative internship environment in which you actively contribute to societal and technological challenges, working alongside leading experts in your field.
• Personal and dedicated supervision, with focus on your learning objectives, development and study assignment.
• Room to develop: you gain relevant work experience, develop both your subject‑specific and professional skills, and build a valuable network.
• Use of a laptop and the facilities you need to perform your work effectively.
• A monthly internship allowance of € 615 for a full-time internship, for MSc, BSc and vocational education (MBO) students.
• Up to eight hours of leave per internship month for a full-time internship, allowing you to balance your internship with your studies and personal life.
• A contribution towards travel expenses if you are not entitled to a student travel card.
• A free membership to Jong TNO: the network for young colleagues, where you can meet other TNO colleagues and participate in sports activities, professional and personal development activities, and social events such as the annual ski trip.

TNO as an employer

Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.

Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.

At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.

The selection process

You can apply for this internship position until the 1st of July, 2026. Interviews will be held between the 15th of July and 31st of July. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

TNO will arrange an appropriate internship agreement. If you have any questions about the content of the internship or the application procedure, you can contact the person listed below.

If you start an internship with us, we will also ask you to provide a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).

Important to know before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, an internship agreement must be signed. For students enrolled at a Dutch university or university of applied sciences, TNO uses the UNL-template , supplemented with several TNO‑specific agreements. For students from foreign educational institutions and MBO (secondary vocational education) programmes, 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 for the duration of the internship, and;
  2. the internship forms part of your study programme.

1. you are enrolled at the educational institution for the duration of the internship, and;
2. the internship forms part of your study programme.

The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.

• Interns at TNO must have a registered residential address in the Netherlands at the start of the internship. Carrying out internship activities from abroad is not possible.
• Are you an international student? Please note that you must have a BSN (Dutch citizen service number) before the start of your internship. Applying for a BSN can take several weeks, so make sure to start this process well in advance.