Research Manager Solar Technology & Application | Eindhoven

Introduction
Generating solar energy through windows, coloured façades, at sea, in cars, and on land is the future! It’s the only way to quadruple the amount of solar energy by 2030 and even increase it tenfold by 2050. This requires a next generation of solar cells and panels that designed with circularity in mind and can be used optimally. And that’s where you come in. You’ll lead the Solar Technology & Application research group in the development of new solar power generation technologies. Your work will have a direct impact on the energy transition and help the Netherlands move towards a sustainable future.

What will your role be?
You’ll lead the Solar Technology & Applications (STA) research group within the Energy and Materials Transition (EMT) unit. STA brings together 50 professionals working on innovative solar energy solutions. This diverse team works with state-of-the-art research facilities, including a clean room, and communicates in both English and Dutch. Your role will be to inspire these professionals and make the most of their talents in challenging R&D projects. As a research manager, you’ll help shape strategy, guide propositions, and inspire your colleagues.

As a research manager, you’ll also be a key member of the management team of the Energy Supply division of the EMT unit. You’ll be based in Eindhoven, with regular visits to the Petten and Rijswijk locations. This is to ensure smooth cooperation with other TNO research groups. Your commitment and leadership help to create a pleasant and productive working environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Together, we’ll set the tone for the future of solar energy.

To find out more about our STA activities, read more here or watch the video.

In the field of Solar Energy TNO has two Research Groups collaborating three propositions:

• Solar Energy in Petten
• Solar Technology & Application in Eindhoven

You’ll actively listen to all Solar Energy and division colleagues and discuss strategy, knowledge development, market trends, and personal development together. Thanks to your constructive feedback, your colleagues will be able to take concrete action. In addition, you’ll motivate your team with your genuine interest in both your team members’ work and in them as individuals. You’ll create a pleasant and inspiring working environment where everyone can be themselves and trust each other. You’ll also ensure that the high-tech infrastructure works efficiently and carefully monitor the progress of projects.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A background in the natural sciences or a related field.
• Experience leading teams and fostering cooperation in a complex, high-tech R&D environment.
• A good command of English and preferably also Dutch (or the motivation to learn Dutch quickly).

If you don’t fully recognise yourself in the description above, but still think you’d be a good fit for this job, we encourage you to respond. Together, we’ll find out whether there’s a match.

Challenging and varied work with a real impact. And plenty of opportunities as, at TNO, you are in charge of shaping your career. The offer consists of a gross annual salary of € 95.000,- and € 126.146,- (depending on your knowledge and experience). You will also get 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 or a leased car.
• 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.
• 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 10th of November, 2024. The selection process comprises three interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 14th or 18th of November, 2024. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 21st or 22nd of November and the third round has been scheduled for the 27th of November or the 2nd of December. 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.

As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (The Dutch General Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.