Senior Scientist Materials | Eindhoven

Introduction:
TNO’s Materials Solutions research group focuses on advancing sustainable materials and innovative applications to address the global energy and materials transitions. With over 1,100 m2 of state-of-the-art research facilities at the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven and Brightlands Chemelot Campus in Geleen, we provide a collaborative and supportive environment for impactful scientific and industrial innovation.

Are you ready to mark your time on a more sustainable future? Join us as a Senior Scientist in Materials and help lead the way.

Learn more about the Materials Solutions research group.

What will you do?
As a Senior Scientist in the Material Solutions group, you will be responsible for developing innovative technologies for diverse applications. You have experience across several knowledge domains and will use your understanding of colloidal science, surface chemistry, polymer physics, and chemical reactivity to design novel, customized solutions for clients or to push the boundaries of state-of-the-art science in research projects. You will also serve as a technical expert in the organization and frequently mentor and oversee less experienced scientists.

You have an active network in both academia and industry, which you will use to initiate collaborations. Furthermore, you will write proposals and lead multidisciplinary efforts that may involve consortium partners, subcontractors, TNO colleagues, and government/regulatory stakeholders. You will also be expected to publish in leading journals and give presentations at conferences. You will regularly contribute to the strategic direction of TNO by identifying and promoting research areas that are scientifically relevant with strong business potential.

Typical work activities are:

• Developing a formulation and test approach for a novel chemical system, such as an emulsion, polymer, surface coating, or a foam/gel.
• Designing custom test and characterization equipment.
• Selecting appropriate materials characterization techniques to assess commercial and novel materials. Typical instrumentation includes spectroscopic (e.g. FTIR, UV/VIS, fluorescent, or dielectric) and microscopic (optical, SEM) techniques, as well as those for polymer testing (e.g. DSC, TGA, DMA).
• Reporting research results in form of presentations or written project reports.
• Serving as the primary technical leader on projects of high-complexity.
• Identifying new technical developments and trends, which are translated into new business opportunities and internal R&D projects.

This is a dynamic position that requires a solid foundation in materials, preferably focused in the formulation and application of colloids and/or polymers. In this role, you will act as a bridge between the academic world and the applied research field, bringing the latest technologies closer to practical implementation.

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A Ph.D. in chemistry, potentially with a specialization in colloids, nanoparticles, or polymer physics, accompanied by at least 10 years of relevant professional experience.
• Proven experience in developing chemical systems (e.g., emulsions, polymers, coatings) and proficiency in using and selecting analytical techniques such as FTIR, Raman, UV/VIS, fluorescence, and/or DSC/TGA.
• A demonstrated ability and enthusiasm to use instrumentation creatively and to develop custom analysis approaches for clients and partners.

We expect a goal oriented and proactive project / team member. You should be comfortable managing multidisciplinary technical teams and mentoring less-experienced scientists. Furthermore, you should be able to conduct practical laboratory activities should the need arise (e.g. operating instruments, interpreting data, conducting experiments, and designing setups). You are also a good communicator and able to express your thoughts and findings in a clear concise manner, both orally and written. Skill in English, particularly for presenting your work and writing reports, is expected. Dutch language skills are a plus.

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 (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.
• 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 15th of January, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. 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.