Deputy Research Manager for the Advanced Computing Engineering Group

Your role at a glance

Are you a strong communicator with a talent for leadership and team development? Do you want to contribute to cutting-edge research without needing to be a deep technical expert yourself? As a Deputy Research Manager at TNO’s Advanced Computing Engineering (ACE) department, you will play a key role in managing and shaping a research team that is driving the future of digital infrastructure. You will oversee key operational and strategic aspects, support a group of employees in their professional development, and help create an environment where innovation thrives.

What will you be doing?

About Advanced Computing Engineering (ACE)
The Advanced Computing Engineering (ACE) group at TNO develops adaptive IT systems, cloud federations, and software innovations to enhance flexibility in complex digital environments. ACE bridges the gap between academic research and real-world applications.

Goal: Develop flexible and future-proof solutions for the seamless integration of all existing and upcoming computing paradigms, including sustainability, governance, and sovereignty aspects.

Your responsibilities

In this role, you will work closely with the Research Manager to provide leadership and guidance to the research department. Your responsibilities will include:

• High-level oversight of research activities: Ensuring that teams and projects align with strategic goals, monitoring progress at a broader level, and intervening when necessary to support continuity and success.
• Team leadership and development: You will be responsible for a group of employees within the department, conducting one-on-one meetings and empowerment discussions to support their professional growth.
• Strategic contribution: Helping shape the department’s direction and contributing to decision-making processes.
• Internal and external collaboration: Strengthening alignment within TNO and working with external partners to maximize impact.
• Acting as the Research Manager’s deputy in their absence, ensuring strong leadership and continuity.

This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to gain management experience or further develop their leadership skills. Formal management experience is not required, but a strong affinity for leadership, coaching, and team coordination is essential.

You thrive on collaboration, structure, and motivating others. You bring:

• A completed master’s degree in a relevant field, such as Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Experience in supporting teams, guiding professionals, or leading projects—whether as a project lead, team coordinator, or senior professional with leadership responsibilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to connect with people.
• A keen interest in technology and innovation, without needing to be a deep technical specialist.
• The flexibility to switch between operational and strategic tasks.
• Proficiency in Dutch and English, or the willingness to develop your language skills.

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between €6.000,- and €8.200,- (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel or a leased car.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

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.

Please apply before the 24th of March, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 1st or 3rd of April, 2025. The secon round is scheduled for the 8th or 10th of April, 2025. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.

The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.

A certificate of Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.

As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (The Dutch General Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.