PhD Community

'I started my PhD in December 2024 at the Human Performance department of TNO Soesterberg and the Artificial Intelligence department at Radboud University. With a background in work psychology and cognitive neuroscience, my research focuses on monitoring team situation awareness in challenging work environments using neuroscientific tools such as EEG. I felt the need for a TNO PhD community after noticing that many of us work across multiple institutions, creating a unique position that only fellow TNO PhDs truly understand. I’m passionate about bringing us together to support one another and connect the wide range of disciplines represented at TNO. Feel free to reach out – whether to talk about research or to chat about hobbies, which for me include films, music, handcrafts, and petting street cats.'

'I am a PhD researcher at the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development of Utrecht University and TNO Amsterdam. My research seeks to gain insight into the distribution of transition costs and socio-economic impacts that accompany the diffusion of sustainable fuels, the adoption of energy saving technologies, and policies towards households. I'm passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive academic environment, which is what led me to join the PhD Community Board. As part of the board, I help coordinate events, advocate for PhD needs, and create spaces for connection and collaboration across disciplines. Outside of research, you’ll find me in the gym or on the train exploring the beautiful cities of the Netherlands. Always happy to chat – feel free to reach out!'

'I started my PhD in 2023 at the University of Amsterdam in Work and Organisational Psychology and TNO Soesterberg. My research regards the dynamics between work design, technology, and learning in high-risk organisations. I am a strong believer that how our work is set up can either foster or hinder itself. Part of that is the social support and the opportunities for learning we have – that is also why I am happy to be part of the PhD community board to foster connections between PhD candidates across TNO and organize fun workshops. Always happy to have a chat!'

'I am an economist pursuing a PhD at TNO vector and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam on the impact of climate risks on the housing market. My research focuses on whether homebuyers consider floods and land subsidence hazards when they buy a house, where we should build new housing in the Netherlands if we consider both the risks and economic benefits of a place, and how we can fairly distribute the costs and benefits among different socioeconomic groups. I strongly believe that equal opportunity forms the basis of a just society and connects people. That is why I also joined the board. I want to use my networking skills, experience in organizing events, and enthusiasm to connect people. I am always in for a chat – whether it be on sports, politics, or deep philosophical questions.'

'Starting my PhD in 2024 at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, in collaboration with TNO Soesterberg and other partners, my research focuses on understanding a key challenge in immersive technologies: the uncomfortable sensations of disorientation, discomfort, and even nausea known as cybersickness, which is akin to car or seasickness. As a member of the PhD Community Board, I aim to foster not only interdisciplinary collaboration but also meaningful personal connections among early-career researchers. I find this role deeply rewarding, as I believe these initial connections can help shape the future of research, innovation, and society as a whole.'

'I started my PhD trajectory in 2024 at the University of Twente and TNO Soesterberg. My research considers how multisensory integration affects our spatial perception in Virtual Reality. Traditionally VR only considers visual and audio cues, but there can be much to gain from considering other sensory information as well, which may improve our intuitive understanding of the virtual space. Within the TNO PhD Community, we hope to bring people together to share experiences and learn from each other. TNO provides a unique opportunity to meet a diverse group of people and share the excitement of all the research that is being done. We are happy and proud to help facilitate that!'