Scientist Circular Packaging | Geleen

Powered by shared expertise and facilities of TNO and the Brightlands Chemelot Campus, Brightlands Materials Center is all about shaping and recycling materials for a better world. We were founded in 2015 by the leading Dutch research institute TNO and the Province of Limburg, represented by the Brightlands Chemelot Campus. Brightlands Materials Center is well positioned between scientific research and commercial product and technology development. We define our activities based on societal challenges, industry trends, and emerging markets and applications. In our work we develop prototypes to demonstrate the feasibility of new technology concepts. We collaborate with industrial partners who wish to commercialize products based on these technologies. Located at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus in Geleen, it is the meeting place for a global network of leading companies along the value chain and renowned universities and institutes.
For more information, please visit our website at: www.brightlandsmaterialscenter.com

The program “Circular Packaging” is the most recent program line within Brightlands Materials Center, with the aim to accelerate the transition towards circular packaging by applying polymer materials knowledge into the re-design of multi-functional and mono/multi-material plastics packaging. The program is built around two topics: 1) simplifying the design of multi-material packaging in order to increase the recycling value after use and 2) using the waste recyclate of such circular packaging for new and 2nd life products. Current plastic packaging, in particular multilayer laminates, hardly has any value at the end-of-life. As a result in many cases it ends up in incineration furnaces or even at landfills. Some of the major hurdles for the transition to circular packaging are the high demands for product quality and product (e.g. food) security in large volume markets. These demands have led to excellent and cost effective packaging solutions, which, however, are difficult to recycle. The Circular Packaging program addresses these issues by performing R&D in the field of simplified multi-material packaging structures with better recycling properties, whilst meeting the packaging requirements. 
In addition, the end-of-life solutions are studied in order to develop 2nd life products which support a reduction of the carbon footprint of packaging products. The approach of adding value to waste packaging will also contribute to the reduction of waste issues.

What will be your role?
In this role, you will actively engage in projects with leading brand owners, packaging suppliers, converters, universities, and research institutes, as well as key players in the recycling value chain. You will play a vital role in executing projects that meet industrial and societal needs, contributing to the Program Plan based on available knowledge.

Working within an inspiring technological environment, you will help drive new insights and breakthroughs in packaging technologies. You will be responsible for the scientific output of ongoing projects, ensuring they lead to significant advancements in the field.

As the fields of materials and packaging integrate numerous expertise areas, you will frequently collaborate with other parts of TNO and other organizations at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus.

Key responsibilities:

• Execute projects in collaboration with leading industry players and research institutions.
• Contribute to the Program Plan based on industrial and societal needs.
• Drive the scientific output of projects, ensuring innovative breakthroughs.
• Engage with collaborative partners to foster a dynamic R&D ecosystem.
• Regularly interact with other TNO divisions and organizations at Brightlands Chemelot Campus.

You are passionate about bridging research and practical applications in sustainable packaging. With a strong background in polymer material science, you excel in translating polymer properties and processing into performance outcomes. Your problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and technical documentation expertise make you a valuable team member.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• PhD in Polymer Material Science or a related field.
• At least 4 years of relevant work experience beyond the PhD.
• Experience with (film) extrusion, compounding, and materials testing.
• Proven track record and network in the polymer materials field; experience in the packaging or recycling industry is a plus.
• Ability to translate innovative ideas into practical research proposals.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in an international team.
• Excellent communication skills, fluent in English; proficiency in Dutch is preferred.

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 € 4.291,- and € 6.614,- (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.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

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.

Please apply before the 9th of July, 2024. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on July 19th, 2024, 10.00- 12.00 and July 12th, 2024, 10.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 14.00. The second interview round has been scheduled for July 19th, 2024 10.00 - 13.00 and 15.00 - 17.00. 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 Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.