Internship | Radar Signal Processing

Are you looking for a challenging graduation internship where you can combine theory and practice? During this internship, you will work on innovative research challenges in the field of radar signal processing. You will investigate new techniques that may contribute to the next generation of radar systems for the Dutch defense sector. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with experts, conduct independent research, and contribute to technology with real societal impact.

More information about our Radar Technology department can be found here: Radar Technology.

During this graduation internship, you will conduct research on a current topic within radar signal processing. The results of your work may contribute to the next generation of radar systems for the Dutch defense sector. Depending on the specific research question and your own interests, you will work on algorithms for radar detection, classification, tracking, adaptive radar and AI techniques, or another relevant topic within the radar signal processing domain. For this, you will be involved in:

• Reviewing the scientific literature related to the research topic.
• Developing new concepts and techniques regarding the research topic together with experts in the field.
• Simulating these techniques using tools such as MATLAB or Python.
• If necessary: conduct measurements to validate your research.
• Analyzing the results and assessing the added value of the research.
• Documenting your findings with final conclusions and presenting your work to experts in the team.

Throughout the internship, you will have opportunities to work independently and to explore your own ideas, therefore developing your research skills. You will be supported and guided by experienced TNO experts throughout the project.

We are looking for a motivated and curious student, who is passionate about technology and research, and above all eager to learn new things. As your research will be conducted within the defense domain, a security screening will be required as part of the application process.

In addition, you:

• Are pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a technical field, such as Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Have an affinity with signal processing and/or radar, or with AI.
• Have an interest in defense-related topics and/or are comfortable with the ethical considerations associated with conducting research for defense and security applications.
• Are able to work independently and take initiative in shaping your research, while collaborating closely with experts.
• Have programming experience, for example in MATLAB or Python.

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 31st of August 2026. 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).

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) following a security screening. In any case, please note that this process has an average duration of approximately 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, this process may take longer. For more information, please visit the AIVD website.

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.