Scienstist Innovator Collaborative Mission Autonomy

About this position

The world of autonomous systems is evolving at a rapid pace. This technological progress is transforming not only the systems themselves, but also the way civilian and military operations are designed and conducted. We are witnessing a growing deployment of advanced autonomous platforms that are capable of collaborating with one another and carrying out complex tasks in a coordinated manner. Examples include cooperating airborne and maritime platforms that can operate fully autonomously in defence missions. These developments create new opportunities for more effective operations, faster decision-making, and enhanced situational awareness across a wide range of operational domains.

Within TNO’s Collaborative Autonomous Systems (CAS) department in The Hague, we develop innovative concepts, algorithms, and software for the reliable, optimal, robust, and effective deployment of heterogeneous teams of collaborating autonomous systems in complex operational environments. With a multidisciplinary team of more than thirty scientists and engineers, CAS combines research with practical, operationally relevant solutions, taking innovations from concept and prototype through to fully operational systems.

These systems are used, for example, in reconnaissance missions, surveillance operations, and logistical support, where environmental awareness, reliable navigation (including in GPS-denied or GPS-limited environments), and tactical effectiveness are essential. The mission autonomy technology we develop focuses on collaboration between teams of autonomous systems, improving environmental awareness, and enabling seamless interaction with military personnel and security teams so they can operate safely and effectively. Through close collaboration with other TNO departments, the Ministry of Defence, industry partners, research institutes, and universities, our innovations quickly find their way into practical applications.

To support this technological innovation, we are looking for a colleague who wants to contribute to the development of mission autonomy in a military context, helping Defence operate more safely, more rapidly, and more effectively.

What will be your role?

You will work on the development of mission autonomy in multidisciplinary, technically challenging projects for a variety of clients within the defence and security domain. In one project, you may investigate the feasibility of a concept or perform an in-depth system analysis; in the next, you may develop a practical, functional, and operationally relevant demonstrator. Depending on your expertise, interests, and the needs of the projects, your work may include:

• Proofs of Concept: You translate academic insights into concrete, practical solutions. You do this by conducting literature reviews and system analyses, thereby actively contributing to new research. You develop concepts into software prototypes that enable decision support and autonomous behaviour, working closely with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Algorithm Development: You translate complex customer challenges within the defence domain into technical requirements and functional concepts. You design and implement innovative algorithms for autonomous decision-making, planning, and situational awareness. These algorithms enable heterogeneous autonomous systems to make the right decisions in real time and collaborate effectively both with one another and with human operators. You further develop these solutions into prototypes and demonstrators.
• System Integration: You integrate modules into complete systems across multiple disciplines. You collaborate with specialists, domain experts, and systems engineers to create an integrated, robust, and effective system. You test solutions in simulations and operationally relevant environments and incorporate feedback to deliver a robust and deployable end product.
• Knowledge Sharing and Technical Leadership: You present results to clients, publish findings where possible, actively contribute to knowledge sharing among colleagues, and help shape the strategy and vision for these technological developments.

What we expect from you

We are looking for a team-oriented Scientist who thrives on collaboration, taking ownership, and developing innovative operational solutions. Within our team, communication is essential: you are confident in asking questions, proactively sharing progress, and raising concerns when you encounter challenges. We are seeking someone who is reliable, eager to learn, technically strong, and a supportive colleague.

You can seamlessly bridge scientific and conceptual thinking with practical implementation. You are a strong listener, capable of clarifying customer needs and translating complex requirements into executable solutions. You are a systems thinker who can, together with colleagues, develop system concepts, design and implement software, and contribute to the development of innovative technologies. In addition, you contribute to writing project proposals and can communicate complex topics clearly to a variety of audiences.

What do you bring?

• A completed university degree (MSc) in, for example, Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering.
• At least two years of relevant work experience in a technical, research, or development-oriented environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• A proactive mindset and a collaborative attitude: you work effectively with others, take responsibility, and keep colleagues engaged and informed.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, preferably with experience in modelling and algorithm development.
• Programming skills, preferably in Python, and the ability to understand, maintain, and extend existing codebases.
• Experience with systems engineering and/or autonomous systems.
• Affinity with the defence and security domain.
• Excellent commandment of both Dutch and English verbally and in writing (C1 level).

Why will you make a difference?

You will contribute to technologies that enable Defence organizations to operate more safely, efficiently, and effectively. Through your creativity, teamwork, research capabilities, and implementation skills, we develop systems that make a real impact in operational practice.