Internship | Computational Aerodynamics for Wind Turbines

The assignment will focus on the analysis of novel airfoil shapes using high fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approaches like hybrid RANS/LES. The selected candidate is expected to perform high fidelity simulations of selected airfoils and extract the boundary layer and wake characteristics. These characteristics will then be used to improve RFOIL, our in-house viscous inviscid interaction tool.

In this project you will set up hybrid RANS/LES simulations of novel flatback airfoils in the open source CFD tool SU2. You are expected to then extract boundary layer characteristics and wake behavior and compare it to a more standard airfoil. The insights generated will be used to improve the performance of RFOIL, a viscous-inviscid interaction tool for flatback airfoils. The data used will be confidential in nature and the selected candidate is expected to follow TNO guidelines on working with confidential data.

Your work will be carried out in our Wind Energy department. This department houses approximately 60 experts with an in-depth knowledge on wind energy technology. You will work from the TNO offices at Petten/Rijswijk offices supervised by 2 to 3 Wind Energy Experts.

We are looking for MSc students in relevant areas i.e. (Wind)Energy Technology, Aerospace Technology, Mechanical Engineering etc with the following characteristics:

• (Some) background knowledge of CFD, especially hybrid RANS/LES and aerodynamics of wind turbines.
• Scripting experience in python or similar languages.
• Preferably some experience with using CFD softwares and some familiarity with linux OS.
• Good knowledge of the English language and enthusiasm for research and technology development.
• Interest in wind energy, independent working attitude.

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.

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.