About this position
Would you like to work with unique machines and enjoy a different challenge every day? Then the SD lab of the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) is the place for you!
TheSD lab houses unique shock machines used to simulate the loading effects of an underwater explosion (UNDEX) on a ship. Testing equipment and materials subjected to UNDEX loading is of utmost importance for the development of more resilient naval vessels. These machines are specifically configured for each test to achieve the desired results. Tests are conducted on a weekly basis for various navies from around the world.
The SD lab is part of the Naval and Offshore Structures (NOS) department. NOS consists of approximately 50 people with diverse technical backgrounds. Within the lab, you will work in a team of three colleagues, each with their own area of expertise. This means you will be part of a small and diverse team. During your internship in the SD lab, you will work closely with your supervisor and other colleagues. Naturally, there will also be sufficient time to work on your school assignments. Weekly progress meetings help ensure that you are enjoying the work and making good progress on your internship project. Each day starts with a brief meeting with your supervisor. During this meeting, the supervisor will explain the plan for the day. You are also encouraged to share your own ideas and priorities, after which a plan is made together.
What will be your role?
During your internship, you will assist with the preparation, setup, and execution of these tests. You will also be involved in maintaining the machines. This involves a wide range of practical activities such as wrenching, welding, drilling, working with hydraulic systems, and much more. You certainly won't be sitting still for long. There is also an opportunity to develop your skills in work preparation and planning. As you gain experience, you may take the lead in instructing your colleagues during a test, after which the team will reflect together on the outcome. Depending on your educational background, we can offer a suitable set of responsibilities and help you further develop your skills.
What we expect from you
We are looking for a Technicus Engineering student with strong practical skills, an eye for detail, and an interest in a graduation internship. We are also seeking a student who is capable of carrying out tasks independently, at least in part. As international clients regularly visit the lab to witness the tests, proficiency in English is an advantage, but not a requirement. Fluency in Dutch is required. To work safely in the laboratory, a valid VCA certificate is required.
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 2nd of October, 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).
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:
- you are enrolled at the educational institution for the duration of the internship, and;
- 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.
