Internship | Socio-technical analysis of the maritime energy transition

The energy transition is one of the most important topics for maritime shipping for the coming years. Economic feasibility of sustainable shipping is a critical barrier. A lack of investments can be observed in this ‘hard to abate sector’. This is due to a (mis)match between the ‘perceived risk’ and ‘risk appetite’ of the decision makers throughout the complex value chain. By learning to analyse the barriers and potential mitigations in complex transitions, you gain the skillset to make a change in the coming decades. For gaining more knowledge on this topic, you will combine data analysis and interviews with ship owners, ports and associations.

For this assignment, the focus will be placed on modelling and defining the main factors impacting the ‘willingness to pay’ for sustainable energy by stakeholders in the shipping sector (differentiated in various ship segments), in comparison to other industries (e.g. chemical sector/aviation/etc).

The work is partly based on previous research, data analyses, but provides room for theoretical and solutions design developments.

You will work closely with the sustainable shipping team of TNO consisting of maritime and logistics experts, data analysts and ship engineering experts. Your assignment will be directly linked with work performed by the team. Additionally you will be part of an energetic and social team who enjoys to have lunch walks, participate in sport activities and who enjoys after work drinks. Finally, you’ll learn about TNO as a research institute and its role in society.

You are focused on achieving results and having influence and impact within TNO. You are socially involved, creative and able to think out of the box. You combine these qualities with a good dose of enthusiasm to work on sustainable mobility, both in a technical and policy sense. You take ownership of your work and you are a team player who solves problems together with others. You are also structured, analytically and qualitatively strong. You are strong in communication and you can listen "actively".

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.

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.

Students must reside in the Netherlands before the start and also throughout the internship or graduation project at TNO.