Internship | Sustainable leak-free packaging

The Circular Packaging program at Brightlands Materials Center works on accelerating the transition to circular plastic packaging by innovations in material redesign, recycling and impact assessment. Thermoplastic polymer films are key elements of many packaging. A large amount of those films are used as sealed films or multilayer pouches in food and non-food packaging. To improve the sustainability of the product, producers need to increase the amount of post-consumers recycled (PCR) material in their films. This may influence the performance of the material, in particular the sealing quality which guarantees leak-protection and longer shelf life in food applications. The aim of this project is to gain an understanding of the sealing process and its relation to the properties of the thermoplastic polymer used. Based on this understanding it is expected that we can design new plastic packaging with increased content of PCR fractions at equal or better performance in an economically viable way.

The relationship between the sealing performance and the content of PCR in packaging film is unknown, and depends on process parameters (temperature, sealing time,…). Your role will be to study the sealing performance of single compounds and blend films under various process conditions to understand their relationship.

You are a proactive and independent bachelor/college student with background in one of the following areas: chemistry, material sciences or chemical/materials engineering. Knowledge and affinity for polymer chemistry is a requirement, as well as experience working in a laboratory environment. Data collection and organization via Excel sheets and basic analysis/post-processing of data is expected. Experience with polymer processing, material/mechanical testing is a plus. Good communication skills in English, particularly for presenting your work and writing reports, is expected.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement 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. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

TNO is an independent research organisation whose expertise and research make an important contribution to the competitiveness of companies and organisations, to the economy and to the quality of society as a whole. Innovation with purpose is what TNO stands for. With 3000 people we develop knowledge not for its own sake but for practical application. To create new products that make life more pleasant and valuable and help companies innovate. To find creative answers to the questions posed by society. We work for a variety of customers: governments, the SME sector, large companies, service providers and non-governmental organisations. Working together on new knowledge, better products and clear recommendations for policy and processes. In everything we do, impact is the key. Our product and process innovations and recommendations are only worth something if our customers can use them to boost their competitiveness.

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.