Internship | Enhancing AI robustness against adversarial attacks

Artificial intelligence and deep learning have transformed computer vision and image analysis, especially in critical areas like defence, safety, and security. However, the increasing prevalence of adversarial AI attacks, such as gradient attacks, poses significant challenges to the robustness and reliability of these technologies. This project aims to explore both the techniques used for adversarial attacks in object detection and innovative methods to detect and counteract these threats. Specifically, we will focus on investigating methods to identify unusual patterns or anomalies that may indicate adversarial attacks, as well as developing techniques to enhance the robustness of AI algorithms, making them more resistant to such attacks.

This project is part of ongoing research at TNO, where you will be fully integrated into our research group. You will start by reviewing recent literature to identify current methods for adversarial attacks for object detection and technologies to detect and counter these attacks. We have relevant datasets of military vehicles, including annotated images and videos, available for this project. You will use these datasets to perform various adversarial attacks and evaluate different detection and countermeasure techniques, with a specific focus on anomaly/novelty detection approaches.

Depending on your interests and the time available for your thesis project, we will also explore methods to train AI technology to be robust against adversarial attacks, potentially reducing the need for detection and countermeasures. We encourage your initiative and welcome suggestions for new research directions related to this topic.

The project will conclude with a written report of your findings and recommendations, with the possibility of conference or journal publication. You will also present your results and propose future research directions.

We are looking for a highly motivated MSc student with interest in computer vision, image analysis, and artificial intelligence technology. Ideally, you have a technical background and are, e.g., studying computer sciences, artificial intelligence, mathematics, physics, (bio)medical engineering, or a related field. Prior experience with computer vision, image analysis, programming (Python), artificial intelligence / deep learning is appreciated.

Your supervision team will consist of two experienced TNO-colleagues who are actively involved in ongoing research projects at TNO. They have experience both in state-of-the-art computer vision, image analysis, and artificial intelligence research, as well as supervising BSc/MSc/PhD students in internships and graduate projects.

Please include the following practical information in your cover letter:

• Whether you are looking for an internship or a graduation project;
• The preferred duration of your project (flexible in the range of 6 to 12 months);
• Your desired start date (flexible, but due to the required security screening the earliest possible start date is three months after submitting your application).

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.