Internship | Sustainable production of bioplastics by enzymatic pathways

Our society needs to become more sustainable for current and future generations. One of the major issues is the reduction of CO2 emissions. Research and development is focusing on replacing fossil-based resources with biogenic resources for production of chemicals, fuels and materials. The most promising alternative key enabling technology is biobased production. TNO develops new methods to produce bio-based chemicals and fuels. A new area is the production of these products using enzymatic conversions from lignocellulosic sugars. Currently, we are working on the production of biopolymers to be used as biodegradable plastics for packaging.

We are looking for an enthusiastic student with a background in microbiology, biochemistry or biochemical engineering to perform part of the process development for the production of bioplastics. The work involves product synthesis, characterization and purification, as well as assessment of enzymatic conversions and kinetics. Applying/Developing analytical methods for intermediates and product analysis are also part of the project.

• MSc student in microbiology, biochemistry or biochemical engineering.
• Practical experience with generic biochemical lab procedures, kinetic assessments.
• Available for at least 6 months.
• You are pro-active and independent.
• You have a B-VCA certificate or are willing to obtain this (needed to work in the TNO labs).
• Good communication skills in English.

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:

• As stated in the internship policy, TNO doesn’t sign contracts from educational institutions. Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed, by the intern, TNO and the educational institution. This agreement is established in cooperation with Universiteiten van Nederland according to the UNL-template. If you are not a student at a Dutch college or university, or if you are a mbo-student, the TNO internship agreement will apply. In that case, a ‘proof of educational institution’ and a ‘proof of internship as part of course’ is needed instead of a signature from the educational institution.
• Furthermore, you have to be registered at an educational institution to be eligible to do a paid internship at TNO. If you are not studying at a university you are only eligible for a work experience internship (unpaid, maximum of 8 weeks).
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. It is not possible to work from abroad.