Senior Researcher Exposure Assessment | Utrecht

The Research group RAPID (Risk Analysis for Products In Development) specialises in multidisciplinary projects on the assessment of health risks due to potentially hazardous exposures in the general population or workers occupationally exposed as well as via intake of food or drugs. RAPID consists of around 50 members with expertise in numerous fields including toxicology, epidemiology, exposome, chemistry, occupational hygiene, exposure assessment, modeling and statistics. RAPID develops innovative, science-based tools, models, and methods to estimate exposures, toxicity and potential health-risks accurately and efficiently. Ultimately, RAPID research focusses on preventing exposure, reducing risks and hence lower the burden of disease. This is achieved by RAPID’s active involvement in endeavours such as advising on exposure prevention and reduction strategies and interventions, applying safe- and sustainable-by-design principles for products and processes, as well as generating actionable knowledge for policymakers and other stakeholders. This is done together with other TNO departments as well as universities, research institutes, government and industry partners.

Within the RAPID department, one of the teams works on the development of (innovative) methods to assess and manage the risk of human (occupational) exposure with the ultimate aim to prevent (occupational) diseases. Examples of these occupational exposures include crystalline silica, welding fumes, biocides, pesticides, endotoxins, asbestos and advanced materials. We develop in silico modelling tools for exposure and/or risk assessment (e.g. Advanced Reach Tool (ART)), aggregate exposure modelling), approaches for making use of innovative data sources (sensor data, big data and AI), and risk management tooling (e.g. Virtual Occupational Hygiene Assistant (VOHA); Smart sensors for a healthy and safe working environment (tno.nl)), Healhty air (Breathe a sigh of relief for indoors, outdoors and at work (tno.nl)), dust free working). 

As a Senior Researcher Exposure Assessment and Management your core activities are:

• Strategy development together with the exposure assessment and risk management team;
• Overseeing the project portfolio and knowledge development needed to succeed the strategy;
• Taking the scientific lead in projects
• Initiate networking activities and project acquisition to investigate new funding possibilities.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive team player with a broad scientific and practical interest and an existing network in this field who enjoys working on complex challenges in the field of human exposure assessment & risk management with an interest in data and modelling. Your curiosity together with your innovative ideas and solutions make you a great innovator. 

We are looking for a candidate with:

• an academic background in for instance Occupational/Environmental Health Sciences, Industrial Hygiene, Life Science Technology, Exposure assessment;
• knowledge regarding exposure assessment and modelling;
• interest in chemical and biological exposures, related health risks and risk management;
• existing international scientific and industry network of exposure assessment and risk management;
• skills with respect to strategic planning, networking, and (scientific) coordination of a team of exposure scientists;
• good communicative skills both verbal and written are important;
• 32-40 hour a week availability.

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. We offer a gross monthly salary between € 5.500,- and € 7.400,- (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13th month bonus of 8.33% and a flex budget (5.58% + € 180). In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

TNO offers optional employee benefits, enabling you to tailor your benefits package to match your personal situation. You may also expect:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• The opportunity to attend courses, workshops and conferences, and to receive training and coaching based on your needs.
• 33 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• Great social events with your team and other TNO colleagues. That’s how you will get to know a lot of people really quickly.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 of 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

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.

The selection process comprises two interview rounds. In a final meeting we will discuss the terms of employment and your tailored benefits package. We aim to finalize the entire process within four weeks.

The selection process may include an online assessment and a reference check.

A certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.