Medior Scientist Underwater Communications | The Hague

About this position

Would you like to develop wireless underwater internet together with your colleagues? Plan and evaluate operations with underwater drones? Come and work at TNO as a scientist in underwater communications!

What will be your role?

In today's unpredictable geopolitical climate, safeguarding our society is crucial. TNO, as a knowledge institute, plays a vital role in the ecosystem with a thousand highly educated employees specialising in innovations for Defence & Security. Here, you can actively contribute to a safer world, both nationally and at a European level.

The Acoustics and Underwater Warfare division brings together all acoustic expertise within TNO and primarily works for the Royal Navy. The Underwater Operations & Seabed Security department focuses on research and development in the field of autonomous underwater systems. Applications include detecting sea mines with autonomous underwater and surface drones, 'stand-off' submarine combat, wireless underwater (network) communication, or protecting critical infrastructure on the seabed. We develop state-of-the-art acoustic sensor systems, including advanced data processing algorithms for visualisation and information extraction to generate situational awareness.

As a scientist in underwater communications, you will work on multiple projects to develop innovative solutions for our clients, often including the Ministry of Defence. Each project has its own team with whom you work closely, and because no project is ever the same, you will have plenty of opportunities to develop further.

Depending on your background and preferences, you may be involved with:

• Improving algorithms for, for example, acoustic underwater communications and various layers of the OSI model;
• Research into optimising communications within networks of autonomous (underwater) nodes and drones;
• Designing, setting up, and carrying out experiments, both through realistic simulations and measurements in the laboratory or at sea;
• Reporting and presenting results to Defence, peers, and colleagues.

Are you someone who enjoys working in a team and is looking for a role where you contribute to society? This job offers variety and stimulates your personal growth as a scientist.

What we expect from you

In addition to being enthusiastic about the work we do, you recognise yourself in the following profile:

• You have at least an MSc in a technical field, such as electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a comparable discipline;
• Preferably, you have experience or a specialisation in telecommunications and/or signal processing, including experience with algorithm development;
• Preferably, you have knowledge of network protocols and architectures;
• Preferably, you already have several years of experience in (applied) research;
• You are proactive and assertive; you feel responsible for the final result and ensure that things get done;
• You communicate clearly and convincingly in Dutch and English, both verbally and in writing;
• You are able to work in an international and military context, such as in European or NATO projects;
• You are open to new ideas, eager to learn, and help others to learn in turn.
• Reactions from junior or senior candidates are also welcome.

What you'll get in return

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

• 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 plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• A good pension scheme.