Internship | Master Thesis Intern at TNO Applied Crypto and Quantum Algorithms

Contribute to data security and privacy or help make organizations quantum-ready. Envision it. Become a master thesis intern at TNO Applied Crypto and Quantum Algorithms in The Hague, Groningen or Eindhoven. As companies and governments become increasingly data-driven, people are right to worry about the security and use of their personal data. And with the advent of the quantum computer, we need to stay ahead by designing cryptosystems that will withstand potential quantum computer attacks. As a master thesis intern at TNO’s Applied Crypto and Quantum Algorithms department, you will conduct your thesis research at the forefront of cryptography and quantum algorithms.

Joining one of our teams of highly driven experts and scientists, you will be contributing to any of our projects geared to make organizations secure in the modern data-driven age. What about enabling multiple banks to analyse their distributed transaction data for money laundering detection, while keeping their data private? Or would you rather explore how we can link various quantum devices to take on challenges that are too great for a single quantum device to tackle?

As we offer a broad spectrum of internship assignments, you’ll find a wealth of research opportunities. Based on your interests and talents we will work with you to find a match with our projects and customers!

You thrive on conducting research that will make a mark on information security. As you’ll be spending between six and nine months researching for your Master’s thesis, you are highly motivated to contribute to the fast-moving field of cryptography and information security in a multi-disciplinary environment. And you enjoy learning from the best and working with colleagues from different backgrounds.
Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A University Bachelor’s Degree. And you’re in the final phase of your Master’s Degree training in mathematics, physics or computer science. Programming skills would be a plus.
• Experience of, or a keen interest in cryptography or quantum algorithms, helping you master the topic within the first few months of your internship.
• An excellent command of English at academic level.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, 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 during the internship, and;
2. the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.

• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.