Internship | Compact Filters for Phased Arrays

Active phased array antennas must comply with stringent requirements in terms of sensitivity to interference caused by other nearby radiating systems, especially in complex platforms, which are populated by an ever-increasing number of sensors and communication systems. Radio frequency interference can cause a number of issues, e.g., saturation of the array receiver, with consequent loss of sensitivity and missed detections, increased false alarm rates, or a reduced channel capacity for telecommunications. This performance degradation can be prevented by implementing frequency selective functions in the antenna panel and RF front end. For this purpose, filters can be inserted in the transmit/receive module of the individual antenna elements. Their function is to isolate the frequency band of the system thus making the antenna unable to transmit/receive a signal that can be received/transmitted by a neighbouring device. The main challenge in designing filters for wide scanning phased array resides in the limited available space of a radiating element which usually occupies an area of only λ/2 × λ/2 (half-wavelength-squared). Implementing miniaturized filters with acceptable performance (low loss and high rejection) is an open research problem.

Several technology and implementation solutions are being studied at TNO achieve the required rejection. The goal of this project is to study and design novel solutions to enhance the performance of miniaturized integrated filters. The filter is required to achieve high rejection and higher order harmonic suppression with low loss and a size compatible with a phased array radiators. Innovative technologies, such as substrate integrated waveguide (SIW), represent promising solutions and will be analysed in detail during the internship.

The Department of Radar Technology is a passionate and creative group of professionals (60 people) dedicated to the specification, development and evaluation of innovative, high-performance MMICs, miniaturised and integrated RF subsystems, antennas and front-ends. The department is at the heart of novel, game-changing radar system and signal processing concepts for the military, space and civil domains.

You are in the final stages of your degree in electrical engineering or a similar degree and have some track record in the field of circuit design and transmission lines. You have experience in programming in Matlab and/or Python, you are pragmatic and focused on making things work. Next to technical expertise we value communication skills and a results-driven attitude.

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.