Scientist Radar Surveillance & Countermeasures

About this position

A system that enables the armed forces to deceive adversary radar systems. A solution that disrupts hostile communications. Or a new method for analysing and influencing an opponent’s navigation data. Diverse challenges, yet all with one thing in common: they contribute, directly or indirectly, to the security of the Netherlands and its allies.

Within the Electronic Warfare research group, you will work alongside fellow scientists on the next generation of electromagnetic innovations. We investigate how emerging technologies can enhance information superiority, strengthen operational effectiveness, and support a future-ready military. We do this for the Ministry of Defence and other security organisations, in close collaboration with national and international partners.

As a Scientist Radar Surveillance & Countermeasures, you will be the subject matter expert behind these innovations. You will develop new knowledge, investigate complex challenges, and translate scientific insights into applications that help Defence prepare for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

You will join TNO Defence, Safety & Security, within the Electromagnetics & Military Operations (E&MO) division. Here, researchers, software engineers, systems engineers, and analysts work every day on innovative technologies for defence and security.

Our expertise spans radar and sensor technology, electronic warfare, simulation, data analytics, and operational decision-making. We work closely with the Ministry of Defence, research institutions, and international partners to develop solutions that contribute to a safer world.

Within E&MO, you will have the freedom to take initiative, develop new ideas, and further expand your expertise. You will collaborate with colleagues who are equally passionate about translating technological innovation into practical, real-world solutions.

What will be your role?

Over the coming years, the Royal Netherlands Navy will modernise a large part of its fleet. These new vessels will be equipped with the latest generation of radar, sensor, and Electronic Warfare systems. Maintaining a strong information advantage is essential in this environment.

As a Scientist Radar Surveillance & Countermeasures, you will work on technologies that continuously monitor the electromagnetic spectrum, detect and analyse radar signals, and help identify threats before they become visible. The insights generated from this work support the development of advanced countermeasures and contribute to the protection of maritime assets and operations.

Your responsibilities may include:

Developing new methods for radar surveillance and countermeasures; Applying Machine Learning, tracking techniques, and parameter estimation to radar and sensor systems; Developing models and simulations for complex electromagnetic scenarios; Designing and conducting experiments, measurements, and data analyses; Analysing radar signals and developing innovative algorithms; Translating research outcomes into applications for operational use.

Working through UMBRA

You will start within UMBRA, an innovative environment where new colleagues collaborate on the technological challenges of tomorrow. You will become part of a multidisciplinary team of software engineers, systems engineers, project managers, researchers, and analysts contributing to a wide range of research and development projects.

From your very first day, you will work on current projects and have the opportunity to explore different technologies, research groups, and application domains within the E&MO division. This enables you to discover where your knowledge, experience, and ambitions can make the greatest impact. Depending on the challenges at hand and your expertise, you will collaborate with a variety of research groups and disciplines. This diversity offers valuable experience across multiple technologies and application areas, while allowing you to contribute to current Defence projects and build a broad professional network within the division.

The strength of UMBRA lies in its unique combination of societal impact, technical challenge, and personal development. You will help create innovative solutions to today's Defence challenges while continuing to develop your expertise in emerging technologies and specialist domains.

Whether you are at the beginning of your career or already bring significant experience, UMBRA provides the level of responsibility and support that matches your background and ambitions. Junior colleagues receive guidance from experienced professionals, while mid-level and senior engineers are given the opportunity to shape technical solutions, mentor colleagues, and play a key role in developing new areas of expertise.

What we expect from you

Innovation is in your nature. You are curious, analytical, and energized by challenges that do not have a standard solution. You enjoy translating scientific insights into innovative applications and thrive in an environment where research, technology, and societal impact come together.

In addition, you bring:

A Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant technical discipline, such as (Applied) Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field; An affinity with Machine Learning, digital signal processing, system modelling, or electromagnetic propagation; An interest in radar, sensor, and Electronic Warfare technologies; The ability to analyse complex technical challenges and develop new knowledge and insights; Strong communication skills, enabling you to translate research findings into recommendations, reports, and presentations; A good command of both Dutch and English.

We welcome applications from both early-career and experienced scientists who are eager to contribute to maintaining and advancing Defence’s technological edge.

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. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 3. and € 7. (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € ). 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 plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis). An employer working towards a where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as , numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics. We offer a comprehensive and flexible that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel. Great social events with your team and other . That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly. Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home. A good pension scheme.

Read about tailoring your benefits package.