Internship | AI-based management for sustainability in 6G Cell-Free Networks

Energy savings and sustainability are a big challenge in mobile networks, with the energy consumption continuously increasing due to the ever-increasing mobile network traffic.
Even though efforts are made to reduce the energy consumption of the mobile network in various ways, the radio infrastructure, in particular the base stations, are the components within the whole network to consume the largest amount of energy. A promising new architecture for achieving lower energy consumption while further enhancing the spatial performance fairness compared to traditional cellular networks, is cell-free networks (CFN).

CFNs consist of multiple simple low-power access points (APs), which are spatially distributed, and can be seen as a distributed MIMO system. Multiple of these APs can be assigned to serve a single device. The intelligence of the network (for example AP clustering, scheduling, and sleep mode management) is located in a centralized processing unit, which is coordinating and managing the APs. Because networks are designed to handle peak hour traffic, during non-peak hours some of the APs can go into ‘sleep mode’ in order to reduce the network energy consumption. Hence, sleep mode management (SMM) algorithms are developed to dynamically adapt the ‘mode’ (i.e. active or light/deep sleep) of the APs, according to the traffic load in the network and while still satisfying e.g. coverage and throughput performance requirements. The goal of this project is to deploy deep reinforcement learning (DRL) methods for the SMM of the APs. A realistic scenario will be considered for the evaluations, where APs are deployed on lampposts in the city centre of Amsterdam.

During this project, a number of key activities will be performed:

• Gain deep understanding on cell-free networks, as well as DRL methods.
• Development of a DRL-based SMM algorithm and integration of the algorithm in an existing simulator of a realistic cell-free network. The developed algorithm will be evaluated in the simulator in different scenarios and configurations, including testing in different conditions/scenarios than in those trained.
• Implementation of state-of-the-art SMM algorithms from the literature, to be used as baselines for the evaluation of the developed DRL-based SMM algorithm.
• Derive key insights and conclusions with respect to the performance of the algorithm, as well as the challenges and gains of using DRL compared to heuristic algorithms.

This graduation project involves closely working with TNO employees. Further, the project will be conducted as part of the large nationally funded research programme ‘Future Network Services (FNS)’, bringing together more than 60 partners for a targeted period till the middle of 2030. The proposed project is envisioned to involve collaborations and/or regular interactions with other FNS partners.

For this graduation project, we are looking for a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree, preferably in the direction of Electrical Engineering or Computer Science. Candidates applying for this project should have affinity/interest in mobile networks, deep reinforcement learning, and software development. The duration of the project is 9 months. The key strengths we are looking for are:

• Previous knowledge/experience in concepts such as 5G/6G and wireless communications, as well as programming experience in Python. Experience with deep reinforcement learning is preferred.
• Ability to conduct research independently under mentorship/supervision, and working together with others in a flexible and diverse environment.
• Fluency in English, spoken as well as written.

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.

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.

You can apply for this internship position until the 18th of August, 2026. Interviews will be held in September. 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.

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.