Internship | Development of smart adhesives for sustainable and recyclable automotive/aerospace/electronics

We want to create a healthier environment that is renewable but also reliable and productive at its application. One of the ways TNO contributes to a more sustainable planet is by designing the materials we use in the various industries to be fit for circularity. This internship position is about finding new materials with smart reversible bonds for high-temperature applications in a sustainable way and easy to recycle. To achieve this, we plan to first synthesis a variety of molecular precursors (based on matrix framework) and evaluate their chemical reactivity. Prominent candidates will then be incorporated into smart polymer resins, applied e.g. in electronics and finally their performance will be tested.

In this project, a study will be done on the chemical reactivity of a reversible covalent bonding. With this type of bonding a reversible adhesive for high-temperature applications will be developed. After the lifetime all compartments can easily be separated and reused by un-bonding the adhesives. The internship will last between 5 and 9 months, depending on the preferences of the candidate. You will perform your task as part of a project team of approximately 3 TNO researchers, including your TNO supervisor. Starting date approx. 01.12.24.

Your Tasks:

• Synthesis of reversible molecule precursors (matrix framework), synthesis of polymers and synthesis condition optimization;
• Characterization of synthesis products and materials (e.g. DSC, TGA, NMR or FTIR);
• Material performance evaluation (e.g. Rheology or Tensile stress test);
• Analysis of experimental data;
• Presentation of experimental data during project group meetings;
• Preparation of technical reports.

You are in the final stages of your degree in chemistry (polymer or organic), chemical engineering, materials science or similar. You are:

• Interested in researching materials for sustainability and recycling. You are eager to gain knowledge by looking for and reading literature;
• You are having experience in laboratory environment. Experienced in synthetic organic chemistry and enthusiastic to learn new analyses, characterization and performance evaluation techniques;
• Pragmatic and focused on making things work – with high degree of self-employment.

Next to technical expertise we value a high level of independence and ability to work remotely, good communication and presentation skills and a hands-on and results-driven attitude.

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:

• 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.