Internship | Ground-Source Heat Pumps: Balancing Efficiency and Groundwater Protection

In the context of the global energy transition, closed-loop ground-source heat pump (GSHP) systems are emerging as a popular solution for sustainable home heating in newly built neighborhoods. This internship contributes to GSHP system optimization, with a focus on mitigation of risks to groundwater reserves and improving system efficiency.

During this internship, you will analyze the performance of closed-loop ground-source heat pump systems in a neighborhood in the Netherlands. Using real-world data, you will examine key metrics such as flow rates, inlet/outlet temperatures, and power consumption, aiming to identify anomalies that may indicate issues in system installation or about subsurface properties. Following this, you will place the gained insights on the system performance and subsurface properties, in the broader context of how this information can aid geodata-driven underground urban planning and the installation of closed-loop ground-source heat pump systems that contribute to the energy transition. You will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of geohydrologists, geologists and geoscientists, contributing to both theoretical research and practical applications in geothermal energy systems. The team operates in a dynamic research environment focused on developing innovative solutions that simultaneously prioritize sustainable energy production and groundwater protection.

We are looking for a candidate with strong analytical skills, who is proactive and eager to contribute to sustainable energy solutions. Pursuing or holding a BSc degree in engineering, environmental sciences, or a related field. Experience with GIS, data analysis, statistical tools, scripting and programming in Python or similar programming language. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Dutch.

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:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) 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.