Experienced LCA Scientist

TNO’s business unit Energy & Materials Transition (EMT) is looking for an experienced LCA expert at the department Circularity and sustainability impact.

TNO is conducting research into circularity and sustainability impacts of highly relevant technologies and economic sectors: novel chemicals & materials including fuels and plastics, electronics & consumer goods, renewable energy and battery storage systems, building & infrastructure and waste management. The Sustainable Value Chains team within the Circularity and Sustainability Impact department is tasked with guiding value chain actors -including technology developers, industry, policymakers and consumers- in the transition towards a more sustainable circular economy.

We model and assess entire value chains across all dimensions of sustainability and resource criticality using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC), Technoeconomic Analysis (TEA), Social LCA, and Socially/Environmentally Extended Economic Input/Output (EIO). To produce insightful recommendations and decision support we complement our assessments with techniques such as (future) scenario analysis, predictive modelling, uncertainty & sensitivity analysis, and multicriteria analysis. Within our multi-disciplinary team you will have a chance to implement and further develop these methods as well as contribute to research proposals for national and international research programs.

You will be part of and expand a high quality network of research partners, knowledge centers and industry partners. You have a demonstrated scientific understanding of environmental and socio-economic impact assessments methods. With the multi-disciplinary team you contribute to the implementation and development of well-suited methodologies to assess sustainability (environmental, social, economic) of value chains and make them more circular. Together with the multi-disciplinary science team you will develop high level proposals for national and international research programs.

You are eager to contribute to solving societally relevant sustainability problems, just like the rest of the team. You are passionate about working with complex LCA types of models and using them to advise on sustainability improvements for novel chemicals, materials, products and economic sectors. An understanding of chemical engineering and process engineering principles is an advantage, but more important is the ability to assess sustainability systematically and methodically. You are not afraid to ask critical questions and are eager to tackle new challenges together with your colleagues. You also have the following qualifications and interests:

• You have at least ten years of experience in performing LCA studies using software like SimaPro, OpenLCA and Brightway and good knowledge of at least one of the relevant technologies & economic sectors;
• An education in process technology, engineering, materials science, chemistry, industrial ecology or similar at university level, and you know what information will help the sector make the transition to a (more) circular sector/industry;
• You have an excellent command of Dutch and English, both written and spoken;
• You have an external focus and a strong network in academia, industry and/or public sector;
• You have published relevant scientific articles or technical reports;
• You can use your extended network to form consortia for new projects and develop new leads;
• You are well-prepared to coach, support and guide LCA and modelling scientists in projects and contribute to their professional development and strong team building capabilities;
• You have a pioneering mentality, and the ability to connect technology with market and socially driven challenges to develop and drive an ambitious vision that cuts across disciplines. With good verbal and digital communication skills, energy, creativity and a boundless curiosity, you will be able to convince and inspire colleagues, partners and clients.

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 € 5.539,- and € 7.396,- (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.

Please apply before the 22nd of September, 2024. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 1st of October, 2024. 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.