Internship | Carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from global iron and steel plants based on Tropomi satellite data

Iron and Steel (I&S) plants are among the most important point sources of carbonmonoxide (CO). CO is an important species in atmospheric chemistry but can also be used as an tracer for CO2 emissions as it is the product of incomplete combustion. Recently a method was developed to use Tropomi data to quantify emissions from European I&S plants. The results were compared with official reported European data and showed good agreement. We want to apply a simple version of the method for I&S plants out side of Europe to obtain a catalogue of emission estimates.

The original method involved detailed WRF atmospheric model simulations but is labor intensive. However, for the larger plants (emitting more than 100 kt CO/yr) a more simple mass balance method over the detected plumes was also tested and, although less accurate, gave comparable results.
In this internship we want to apply the more simple method on a catalogue of global I&S plants that we develop in cooperation with the Barcelona Supercomputing center to support the upcoming CO2 Monitoring and Verification System (MVS). Key research questions include: Can we detect CO plumes for the larger I&S plants worldwide? Can we quantify the CO emissions from the detected plumes? And how does this compare to traditional inventory estimates. Also I&S plants that “on paper” should have high emissions but are not being detected are of interest as this may point to decommissioning of the plant. The final result is to improve the TNO catalogue of point sources with better CO emission data.

We are looking for a student who is currently doing a MSc programme in a relevant field

• Important skills and / or qualities are:
• Ability to work with large datasets;
• Knowledge of python (or similar) for data handling;
• Preferably experience in working with satellite data;
• Affinity with the topic of air quality / climate change;
• Able to work independently with weekly updates in a small team.

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- and hbo-students, 390 euro for 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.