Starter Scientist Ship Structures

As the Naval and Offshore Structures department, we contribute to a livable future for everyone. We specialize in designing, analyzing, and testing an extensive array of mechanical structures for the maritime and offshore industry, as well as defense applications. Our primary focus is ensuring the structural integrity of these constructions under extreme conditions throughout their entire lifecycle. Additionally, there is growing interest in exploring new opportunities for these structures beyond their initial design lifespan. If this innovative approach excites you and you are eager to contribute to the development of safe and sustainable ships of the future, then this role could be perfect for you!

As a Starter Scientist Ship Structures, you will analyze and model a wide range of maritime structures and systems to validate groundbreaking structural solutions. Your focus will be on the robustness and lifespan of these structures and materials. Your focus will be on the robustness and lifespan of these structures and materials, considering factors such as resistance to fatigue and material degradation caused by extreme cold or hot substances. You'll combine your knowledge of mechanics, dynamics, and materials science to make accurate predictions about the behavior of these structures.

Additionally, you will be involved in the experimental validation of these predictions. You will contribute to developing innovative solutions for extending the lifespan of constructions at the end of their lifecycle, repurposing them for new functions, or recycling them. This will help create a sustainable and safe maritime sector. Examples of recent topics include the safe reuse of (parts of) ship structures, hydrogen embrittlement, and corrosion under the influence of alternative fuels.

You will work within a multidisciplinary team with experts from various fields, collaborating closely with clients and/or partners. Additionally, you will contribute to TNO's visibility through publications and presentations. You will become part of the Naval and Offshore department. This department comprises 50 dedicated experts with backgrounds in maritime engineering, civil engineering, aerospace, technical physics, and mechanical engineering. Our research mainly focuses on defense and maritime & offshore applications.

Our well-equipped labs for mechanical testing allow practical and theoretical knowledge to go hand in hand, enabling us to solve the most complex problems and validate groundbreaking structural solutions. Examples of our research range from the safe use of alternative fuels on board ships and assessing the structural safety of offshore wind turbines to developing shock and explosion-resistant ship structures. We are actively addressing today’s critical challenges: the energy transition and the increasing attention to safety at sea.

You have a completed technical academic education (such as Maritime Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering) with specialization in structural mechanics and an affinity for the maritime sector and materials science. You have a solid theoretical foundation, master numerical techniques, but also have practical insight into the behavior of structures. Finally, you are enthusiastic about the practical impact of groundbreaking work.

In addition to your technical expertise, we highly value communication skills and customer- and results-oriented thinking. This allows you to effectively collaborate in a team environment towards achieving deliverables that are usable and applicable for our clients. You are proficient in both Dutch and English, both orally and in writing.

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 € 3,400,- and € 5,000,- (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:

• 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.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• 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 February 26, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on 5th of March, 2025. 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.