Internship | The role of physically demanding work on transitions and drop-out among the Dutch workforce

In the Netherlands, there is currently a hefty debate and country-wide strikes on whether or not workers in physically demanding jobs should be granted early retirement. Workers in physically demanding work are known to be at higher risk of adverse health than those with non-physically demanding work. For example, in an earlier internship project using data from one of the TNO cohorts, we showed that an increase in physical work demands was associated with a higher risk of self-reported ill-health and musculoskeletal symptoms. TNO has two ongoing cohorts, longitudinal databases, that provide an excellent opportunity to study the highly timely question of how physically demanding work affects work transitions and drop-out in the Dutch workforce. These datasets are STREAM and CODI, and provide longitudinal measurements on a variety of topics including physical and mental work demands of a sample of Dutch workers, and data on work transitions (e.g. from work to pension or work disability). The results will contribute to a better understanding of how workers in physically demanding jobs can healthily reach their pension age.

In this internship project, using STREAM/CODI data, we will assess the role of physical work demands including heavy lifting, awkward body postures, or body vibrations, and work transitions. We intent to write a scientific journal article from this project. This project will be performed in a collaboration between Amsterdam UMC and TNO Leiden. The internship will therefore give the student the possibility to explore the work environment in both institutes. The student is expected to spend (a negotiable) part of the internship at TNO in Leiden. No additional data need to be collected, while support in data analysis will be provided.

As you’ll be spending six months researching for your Master’s thesis, you are highly motivated to contribute to the field of work and health in a multi-disciplinary environment. And you enjoy learning from the best and working with colleagues from different backgrounds.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A University Bachelor’s Degree. And you’re in the final phase of your Master’s Degree training in health sciences.
• An excellent command of English at academic level.
• Teamplayer.

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.