Internship | Battery Program (6-9 months)

In an effort to realize ‘carbon neutrality’, advanced battery technologies are being developed and explored across Europe. TNO at Holst Centre in Eindhoven works with a range of thin-film technologies that have very interesting potential in the fast-growing domain of Energy Storage. Devices that are being developed include next-generation batteries aimed at being intrinsically safe, having higher capacity and faster charging times compared to the current state-of-the-art batteries on the market.

Our technical focus in the battery domain includes testing lithium and sodium-ion batteries, improving scalable production techniques of battery components, exploring materials related to emerging battery concepts such as all-solid-state and metal-air batteries, and improving the performance of existing battery materials leveraging our in-house thin-film deposition techniques. Durability and scalability of battery components are high on the agenda.

To strengthen our team, we are actively looking for a research intern enrolled in bachelor or master studies with a background in chemistry, electrochemistry, physics or materials science. The position requires flexibility to handle various tasks simultaneously. You will be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope to get the best out of yourself.

The internship period is strictly between 6-9 months, and within this timeframe, your day-to-day activities in the laboratory will involve:

• Synthesis of solid electrolyte materials;
• Working on optimizing scalable production routes (mainly dry) for electrode and electrolyte layers;
• Assembling and testing coin and pouch cells for lithium- and sodium-ion batteries;
• Assisting in setting up new experimental tools;
• Contributing to the research activities related to next-generation battery concepts such as metal-air batteries;
• Cooperating in thin-film deposition experiments to solve challenges in battery technology;
• Participating in group meetings, provide feedback, discuss results, and propose solutions to various challenging aspects;
• Preparing a technical report summarizing the work done during your stay.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.