AI Research Scientist for safe automated driving systems

About this position

To operate safely in complex real-world environments, automated driving systems increasingly rely on Artificial Intelligence (AI). While AI creates opportunities to improve road safety, it also introduces new challenges for safety assurance. How do we quantify system competence across different traffic situations? How do we detect functional insufficiencies? How do we determine whether an AI-enabled system is fit for purpose across its operational design domain? These are some of the key questions we address at TNO.

The department of Integrated Vehicle Safety (IVS) is part of TNO's unit Mobility and Built Environment (MBE). Together with industrial partners and policymakers, we develop technologies, methodologies, and assessment frameworks that accelerate the safe deployment of Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility (CCAM) systems. Our work contributes to safer roads, more sustainable transport, and more efficient mobility and logistics systems.

To make vehicles and mobility systems safer, more sustainable, and more efficient, IVS combines expertise in vehicle automation technologies with innovative safety assessment methodologies. As a AI Research Scientist, you will contribute to cutting-edge research with direct real-world impact, helping shape the future of trustworthy and safe AI-driven mobility.

What will be your role?

You will work in a team on multiple projects concerning the safety of AI or using AI for safety in the automotive domain. Examples of projects include:

• Developing probabilistic models to assess and monitor the competence of AI-based driving systems;
• Building data pipelines that process large-scale sensor data from test vehicles and simulations;
• Translating traffic regulations into formal, machine-verifiable safety requirements;
• Applying machine learning techniques to improve safety assessment methodologies for automated driving systems.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Contributing to research and innovation projects in AI and vehicle safety;
• Designing, developing, and evaluating machine-learning-based solutions;
• Working with real-world vehicle and simulation data;
• Presenting results internally and to external stakeholders;
• Contributing to scientific publications, reports, and proposals where relevant;
• Continuously developing your technical expertise and expanding your role within TNO.

We are looking for someone who enjoys solving complex technical problems, is eager to learn, and takes ownership of their work. You combine analytical thinking with a practical mindset and are motivated to translate research ideas into real-world impact.

What we expect from you

• You are interested in applying AI and data science solutions in the automotive domain with a focus on safety;
• Recently graduated or early-career professional with a M.Sc. degree in AI, machine learning, data science, or a related field.
• Solid foundation in statistics, probability theory, and machine learning.
• Knowledge and experience with Python and relevant packages (e.g. PyTorch, NumPy, scikit-learn);
• Capable of organising your own work independently;
• Proficient in speaking and writing in English.
• Experience with other software languages like MATLAB or C++ is considered a plus.
• Experience with software development practices such as Git, testing, and code review is considered an advantage.

What you'll get in return

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 € 3,400 and € 3,900 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13^th 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 plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics.
• 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.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

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

Please apply before the 3th of September 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.
A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.