Physics | Optical Engineering internship: optical column optimization

Introduction

The Optical Column department in Veldhoven develops advanced optical metrology systems that support chip manufacturing. In this internship, you will investigate opportunities to further improve optical metrology performance and reduce performance differences between systems. Depending on the assignment, your work may focus on hardware-related improvements within an optical column or on system-level investigations that leverage advanced measurement and data analysis capabilities.

Reducing system-to-system variations helps customers achieve tighter process control and improves the value of ASML's metrology solutions in a highly competitive market. You will work closely with experienced engineers and contribute directly to the understanding and optimization of optical system performance. This Physics | Optical Engineering internship offers a unique opportunity to combine experimentation, data analysis, and engineering insights in a cutting-edge technological environment.

Your assignment

During this internship, you will help evaluate how changes in optical subsystems, system configurations, or operational approaches influence metrology performance. Depending on the specific assignment, you may work directly with optical hardware and measurements in a laboratory or cleanroom environment, or focus on system-level investigations using remotely accessible setups, data analysis, simulations, and performance modeling.

Your work will contribute to improving consistency between systems and identifying opportunities for future design improvements. Your main responsibilities may include:

• Support the evaluation of optical column or system-level modifications and their impact on metrology performance.
• Perform measurements using experimental setups, laboratory equipment, or remotely accessible systems.
• Collect, process, and analyze image and measurement data from metrology applications.
• Develop and test hypotheses using experiments, simulations, or statistical methods.
• Investigate performance variations and identify key influencing factors.
• Visualize results and communicate findings through clear reports and presentations.
• Recommend practical improvements based on evidence and identified trade-offs.
• Collaborate with engineering experts to validate results and refine research questions.

This is a bachelor/master thesis internship for a minimum of 4 months, minimum 4 days per week (3 days on-site). The start date of this internship is as of February 2027.

Your profile

To be suitable for the internship, you:

• Are pursuing a bachelor's degree or master's degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, Optics, or Electrical Engineering.
• Have a basic understanding of optical systems and measurement principles.
• Are analytical, curious, and proactive when approaching technical challenges.
• Enjoy a combination of experimental work, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• Communicate clearly in English and collaborate effectively with others.

Other requirements you need to meet:

• You are enrolled at an educational institute for the entire duration of the internship, and you are at least 18 years old at the start of the internship;
• If you are a non-EU citizen, studying in the Netherlands, your university is willing to sign the documents relevant for doing an internship (i.e., Nuffic agreement);
• You attach your cover letter with a clear motivation on why you are interested in this internship assignment in particular;
• You need to be located in the Netherlands to be perform your internship. In case you are currently living/studying outside of the Netherlands, your application shows the willingness to relocate.

Inclusion and diversity

ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.

Do you want to know more about the internship allowance, visa support and applying for an internship at ASML? Read this page.