Do your work experience or research internship at SIDN

Innovation and impact at SIDN Labs

"For technical students looking for somewhere to do their research internships, SIDN Labs offers the perfect blend of science and practice," says Research Engineer and Student Placement Coordinator Elmer Lastdrager. "Innovation is what it's all about here. We investigate questions that are important for the internet in the Netherlands, such as how quantum computing will impact encryption. Students who do internships here are fully involved in our work and given the opportunity to make a real contribution to the future of the internet."

What makes SIDN Labs unique is the freedom to do research without the commercial pressures that exist in many companies. "Here, students are given the scope to do their experiments, make mistakes and really learn," says Elmer. "They work closely with experienced researchers, and are encouraged to contribute to publications and presentations. For any student with a passion for technology and research, it's a wonderful opportunity."

Creative openings for marketing students

"It isn't only technical students that SIDN caters for. If you're doing a marketing course, for example, an internship at SIDN will give you ample scope for developing and implementing your ideas," says Corporate Recruiter Inge Loeff. "You'll be involved at every stage, from strategy formulation to implementation. And your supervisors will be very experienced people you can learn a lot from. We have an open culture: everyone is approachable, and your input is valued."

Collaboration is central to the way SIDN's Marketing Department operates. "We work closely with other departments, and couldn't do what we do without them," Inge continues. "There's no strict demarcation between tech and non-tech teams; we work in tandem. As a result, the atmosphere is very open and accessible."

A culture of collaboration and growth

Jens Kleinen began a marketing internship at SIDN in September 2024. "Because SIDN performs a public role, its marketing mustn't be over-commercial. You have to consider the image of the organisation while also promoting a product such as SIDN BrandGuard as effectively as possible. That kind of balanced approach to marketing was new to me. I'm studying Commercial Economics, so there was a period of adjustment. But you learn a lot from doing that."

Jens particularly likes the atmosphere at SIDN: "The team's small enough for personal contact with your colleagues, but big enough to mean you're surrounded by people who are experts in their fields. It's very friendly and welcoming. You get the chance to experiment and develop, and you're not rushed off your feet, the way that you can be at a big corporation."

Jens was also impressed by the engaged and supportive supervision he received: "Weekly meetings and immediate feedback, with all your experienced colleagues taking an interest in what you're doing. You're never left to cope on your own, even though you do get the freedom to work independently and chart your own course."

Why choose SIDN?

As well as providing first-hand inside experience of an innovative, socially relevant organisation, a work experience internship or research internship at SIDN gives you the opportunity to grow as a professional. So, whether you're a technical student with a thirst for exploring the limits of the internet, or a marketing student keen to give your creativity free rein, SIDN is the place for you.

With challenging projects, inspiring colleagues and a culture that fosters personal growth, SIDN offers the opportunity to gain experience and much more besides. You can build your future with us!