About this position
In space systems engineering, specialized bolt types and surface treatments are employed to achieve a preload that ensures the bolted joint remains stable during the launch of an instrument. It is crucial to guarantee that the instrument's alignment is not compromised by instability in the bolted assembly. Various methods—such as gold plating and Dicronite treatment—and different material types are used to achieve the desired preload. The objective of this internship is to investigate the influence of these various parameters on the stability of the bolted joint.
What will be your role?
The student will begin by creating an overview of the bolt types currently in use and identifying the parameters that require investigation. They will also familiarize themselves with the methods for measuring key properties. Subsequently, the student will use literature research to determine which bolt types are best suited for specific aerospace applications, particularly optical instrumentation. Once a selection has been made, the student will arrange for the construction of a test setup to conduct measurements and ensure the test specimens (bolts and test plates) are prepared with the appropriate surface treatments. The testing phase will follow.
The internship may also involve using existing software to perform calculations that theoretically predict the preload expected for a specific configuration.
Finally, the test results will be compared with the theoretical values to formulate recommendations regarding the use of bolt types and configurations in aerospace applications.
What we expect from you
We expect a student with an MBO or HBO background to be able to carry out this work. We anticipate a student who works independently and takes responsibility for:
- Procuring the necessary materials
- Setting up a test rig
- Conducting a literature review
- Performing theoretical calculations (if applicable)
- Reporting the results
In addition to working independently, there will be significant interaction with the various stakeholders involved in this subject. These include, first and foremost, the mechanical designers, who must account for the expected preload of bolted joints in their designs. Also involved are the MAIT engineers, who handle the integration and assembly of the instruments and are responsible for procuring the materials and components used in the project.
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 10th 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).
Important to know before applying:
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.
