Research Manager Environmental Modelling, Sensing and Analysis | Utrecht & Petten

Introduction
Within the Environmental Modelling, Sensing and Analysis (EMSA) research group, we work on clean air for all and sustainable recycling technologies for critical materials. Our mission is to help improve air quality and promote the circular economy so that future generations can live in a healthier environment.

EMSA combines in-depth knowledge, innovative technologies, and state-of-the-art research facilities related to the environment and circularity. We use our research to offer targeted advice to industry, policymakers, and others to help them make informed decisions that contribute to a sustainable future. 

Are you ready to dramatically accelerate the energy and materials transition and actively participate in the development of a circular economy? Join TNO as this department’s research manager. 

The department
Our team is made up of experts from a range of disciplines, including environmental science, chemistry, and technology development. The research group consists of three expert teams:

• Particle Expertise Centre (PEC)

This team is dedicated to dissecting the intricate composition of particulate matter, including microplastics. Our expertise in particulate matter and microplastics includes the development and application of innovative measurement and analysis techniques. We translate our findings into advice and mitigation measures for (local) governments and industry. We take a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together materials science, measurement and detection, and health sciences. Our focus is on developing technologies to study the release of different types of particles during the manufacture, recycling, and use of materials. We are also developing methodologies to evaluate mitigation strategies. This team plays a crucial role in understanding the effects of exposure to various airborne particles. We are continuously working to better understand the challenges associated with particulate matter and to formulate sustainable solutions. Innovative research, such as the development of eDNA coding and non-target screening methods to detect unknown substances and contaminants, is key. The team works from our Utrecht location.

• Air Quality Assessment (AQA)

This team specialises in environmental research. Our research focuses on quantifying and understanding emissions and particle and gas depositions that affect air quality and climate. We use our findings to advise policymakers on the measures they can take to achieve cleaner air. The team is a national and international leader in complex and innovative mobile and stationary field measurement campaigns for greenhouse gases, nitrogen, and particulate matter. The team works from our Utrecht and Petten locations.

• Circular Electronics & Critical Raw Materials (CirEel)

This team is focused on achieving the sustainable availability of critical materials. Our research focuses on two lines. The first is the development of sustainable recycling technologies to recover critical materials from electronic waste, such as batteries, solar panels, and circuit boards. The second is the assessment of the circular potential of ‘the urban mine’ for critical materials. Our expertise is aimed at a combination of circular chemistry, recycling technologies, and early assessment of recycling potential. The team works from our Utrecht location.

Increasing attention for the energy and materials transition in general, and for our research results in particular, lie at the root of this research group’s recent rapid growth. TNO operates as a non-commercial knowledge broker between public authorities, market parties, and knowledge institutions. The research group is highly regarded by our clients and collaboration partners, which include ministries in the Netherlands, the European Commission, industry, industry associations, and other (international) knowledge institutions.

What you will be doing
You’ll lead a team of around 60 specialised and highly motivated researchers, consultants, field staff, lab technicians, and project leaders. You’ll do this together with a deputy research manager and two team leaders. You’ll be working on the following tasks:

You’ll set a clear common goal and ensure that targets are clear at departmental, team, and individual levels. You’ll align the department strategy with changing client demand and the vision and strategy of the SSE (System Solutions & Environment) division your group is a part of. In this, you’ll work intensively with the divisional director, the market manager, proposition manager, knowledge manager, and your fellow divisional research managers. 

You’ll have ultimate responsibility for the operational and financial management of the department. You’ll ensure that the personnel capacity of the department is in order through recruitment and selection, as well as the optimal deployment of skills and competences within the teams. You’ll also oversee the progress of projects and ensure that deadlines are met, budgets remain under control, and meaningful results are achieved. 

For employees, you’ll be a valuable sparring partner for their personal and professional development. You’ll challenge, coach, and support where necessary. You’ll provide constructive feedback and encourage mutual feedback between employees. In this way, you’ll build a team where employees are deployed based on their talents in an inclusive, open, and supportive culture.

Finally, you’ll be a member of the management team of the SSE division, an ambitious team with the aim of dramatically accelerating the energy and materials transition and achieving a fully circular economy. You’ll contribute to the connection within and performance of the division and EMT unit (Energy & Materials Transition).

You have extensive leadership work experience and a clear motivation to create solutions with demonstrable social impact through applied research. You’re strong in operational and financial management and feel energised creating frameworks within which employees can perform optimally. Your stakeholder management is in order, making you effective in an environment with multiple internal and external interests. You’re decisive and results-oriented: you can set a clear goal and are able to stick to it. By doing so, you offer employees focus, acquire position both internally and externally, and increase the visibility of the research group. You’re analytically strong and know how to separate primary issues from secondary issues.
As a leader, you’re people-oriented, using your communication skills to inspire, persuade, and coach employees of diverse nationalities. You use your enthusiasm to get people moving, make sure they have fun at work, and use their talents. You encourage collaboration with experts within TNO and with external partners, such as universities and governments. 

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A university degree in a relevant field, such as (analytical) chemistry, materials science, biomedical sciences, environmental sciences.
• A background or interest in the energy and materials transition and an interest in air quality, which will help you to understand what your people are working on and to formulate your strategy.
• Experience in leading research teams, including financial and operational management.
• Experience in laboratory management, including quality and safety aspects.
• Good command of spoken and written Dutch and English.

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 € 6.418,- and € 9.138,- (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 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.
• 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 4th of December, 2024. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 11th and 12th of December, 2024. The second round consists of two interviews and has been scheduled for the 17th and 18th of December, 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 Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.