PhD Biodegradable/compostable Medical Patches | Eindhoven

Remote health monitoring through medical patches in a patient's home shows great potential for the future, offering innovative diagnostic tools, enhanced treatments, and reduced hospital visits. These patches continuously track essential signs such as heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen levels, enabling extended observation periods.

Nevertheless, the widespread use of medical patches will present challenges in terms of waste production. As a solution, it is preferable for these patches to be biodegrade after use or be composed of natural materials like silk, rather than adding to landfill waste.

Holst Centre has established a lasting partnership with the University of Gent in the field of printed electronics. Together, they have launched a project dedicated to creating medical wearable patches with minimal environmental impact. 

As a PhD candidate, you will lead the research and development of biobased and/or biodegradable materials and processes for medical patches, taking into account the entire product life cycle.

This PhD project will involve close collaboration with the University of Gent (Belgium), with Holst Centre's industrial partners (medical device and material companies) and University Hospitals in the Netherlands. Working on a PhD at TNO at Holst Centre entails being part of a supportive project team alongside three or four colleagues, with access to a range of researchers, engineers, laboratory technicians, and technical support staff.
The ultimate goal of the PhD project is to produce a fully functional proof-of-concept bio-based and/or biodegradable medical patch for human testing in clinical settings. Throughout your research, you will publish scientific papers, present findings at conferences, and contribute to patent applications, helping to safeguard our knowledge base for future endeavors.

What you will be doing
Your research approach;

• Conduct a literature review on state-of-the-art materials and methods for biodegradable/compostable electronics;
• Select 2-3 concepts, supported by Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies;
• Develop processes and technologies for a biocompostable/biodegradable medical patch;
• Realize a proof-of-concept biodegradable/compostable medical patch.

You have a passion for research with practical applications that make a difference. You conduct your research independently but also collaborate with our partners and your colleagues at TNO. You are motivated to explain your findings and unite stakeholders by conveying your thoughts clearly and having in depth discussions while respecting sensitivities and interest involved. 

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A Master’s degree
• Experience with LCA methodologies
• Practical experience with modelling and simulation software, such as MATLAB or Python.

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 (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:

• An extremely professional, innovative working environment where colleagues are leading experts in their field.
• 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.
• 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.

The selection process comprises two interview rounds. . 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 Good Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.