Internship | Dynamic AI code optimization for green software

Interest in sustainability is growing across various ICT domains, with a typical focus on enhancing hardware energy efficiency to minimize the carbon footprints of devices. However, a major, controllable source of increased energy consumption is typically overlooked: computationally expensive code. In a world where human resources are a lot scarcer than computing resources, optimizing code has taken a step back in importance during development of software.

Running unoptimized code in production has the potential to nullify optimizations made at the hardware and network levels, resulting in unintentional contribution to more greenhouse gasses of the target technologies. At the same time, improving Next Generation Software Tools (NGST) such as ChatGPT, GitHub and Copilot can offer a simple way to optimize code patterns. However, these tools are a double-edged sword. Using them excessively whilst optimizing software might nullify or even harm the potential optimization benefits when looking at it from a sustainability perspective. At TNO, we are doing research in how to leverage both the power of NGST and the power of conventional tools like static analysis to develop sustainable software tools.

Examples of fitting research questions:

• How can we evaluate the performance of different generative AI models for varying levels of e.g. coding task, language, or complexity?
• Can we design a framework that helps deciding what tool to use in any given context dynamically to ensure software sustainability gains?

During your graduation project, you will develop software optimization tools, do literature and experimental research in compute effective LLMs (Large Language Models) and SLMs (Small Language Models), LLM fine-tuning and you will evaluate the performance of tools in terms of code quality and sustainability gains. You will work within the Data Science department of TNO and will be supervised by people that work on Green IT solutions within the department.

We are looking for a student, who is interested in the field of (generative) AI and software engineering, who is interested in research and enjoys tackling technically challenging problems. This student should be able to work unsupervised and have a structured approach to accomplish their goals in their research proposal. Furthermore, the student should be comfortable working in a team and be willing to learn more about the domain and the field.

You are following a master’s study in a relevant field, such as artificial intelligence or computer science. You possess good programming skills (preferably in Python) and are familiar with both AI pipelines as well as software development pipelines. You are currently studying within the Netherlands or other EU country and willing to relocate to the Netherlands. You have good communication skills in English.

We are looking for students who are available full-time (32-40 hours per week) for 6 to 9 months, beginning in March 2025.

Please submit your application before February 15 and include the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Motivation letter
• List of courses taken, including grades

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.

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.