Internship | Developing future pathways to fuels

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production is important in order to facilitate the energy transition as the aviation sector emits about 14% of CO2 in Europe’s transport sector. According to the EU’s REFUEL regulation, the share of SAF has to increase to 70% in 2050. To accommodate this increased demand, novel sustainable conversion routes and technology are required. Most of these conversions, especially at large scale, require syngas (containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide). This syngas can originate from electrolysis using renewable electricity to form H2 which is then combined with captured CO2, or from e.g., the gasification of bio-based feedstock.

In the biobased and circular technology (BCT) group at TNO in Petten one of the research topics involves the development of novel syngas-to-SAF technology. This project will involve the preparation and characterization of catalyst materials and testing / screening in a micro-flow high-pressure reactor unit. In parallel, a techno-economic analysis will be carried out based on available knowledge to compare with existing technology on a cost basis.
The BCT group consists of ca. 50 colleagues and is a very international research group with colleagues from the Netherlands, EU and outside the EU. Research topics include the thermochemical conversion of biogenic feedstocks and wastes, upgrading, combustion and biomass fractionation, to produce sustainable fuels, energy and materials.

We are looking for a university / HBO master student in chemistry, chemical engineering that:

• Enjoys working in the lab experimenting;
• Proficient in English / Dutch;
• With an interest in the energy transition;
• Some experience with catalysis;
• Project duration 5 to 10 months;
• VCA required / to be obtained.

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- and hbo-students, 390 euro for 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.