Internship | Process development for thermo-catalytic conversion of CO2 to Olefins

Olefins, such as ethylene, propylene, butylene, etc, are important building blocks in the chemical and polymer industry. Olefin oligomerization is one of the most promising ways to produce Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and other renewable chemicals in the future. Conventionally, olefins are produced using fossil fuels as starting materials, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Recently, several sustainable and cleaner methods to produce olefins have emerged, among which Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technologies offer opportunities to recover emitted carbon dioxide (CO2) and integrate it into carbon value chains. When combined with CO2 derived from direct air capture and renewable hydrogen, the olefins produced are termed carbon–neutral. ​​​​​​​ CO2 conversion to olefins faces significant challenges due to its stable nature, high energy barrier for C-C bond formation, poor catalytic activity and selectivity, and the need for green hydrogen, an expensive reactant. At TNO, we are working on developing innovative catalysts, reactor technologies, and intensified processes for efficient CO2 conversion to high-value products.

You will be part of the CO2 Conversion and Separation team (CON-SEPT) located at TNO Petten in North Holland. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to contribute to the challenging topic of CO2 conversion to Olefins. You can work in the lab and support the development of multifunctional catalysts, perform experiments for kinetic studies, and test innovative solutions to improve product yield and selectivity.

You also have the opportunity to dive into reactor modelling, process simulation, and optimization to improve process efficiency. If you have an interest in machine learning and data analysis you can explore the applications of physics-informed neural network models for example.
The student can work towards an internship or a thesis project.

• MSc student (currently living in the Netherlands and registered at a Dutch University) in Chemical engineering, Chemistry, Material science, or a related field.
• Willing to work at the TNO Petten office.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Highly motivated with a problem-solving mindset.
• Prior experience or an interest in learning reactor modelling, process simulation, data analysis, or related topics.
• Practical laboratory experience is desirable but not mandatory.

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.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

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.