Research Manager Material Solutions | Eindhoven / Geleen

Research into durable and circular materials is crucial to our drive towards a sustainable future. Solutions include light-weight thermoplastic composites used in construction and civil engineering, solar-produced chemicals and fuels, and optical coatings to drive down the energy consumption in buildings. Are you ready to take the lead in applied research that is at the heart of the energy and materials transition? Join TNO as research manager of our Material Solutions group.

You will enable your 55-strong team of highly specialised and driven researchers and technicians , by challenging, coaching and supporting them. And you will be responsible for operational and financial management, while developing a high-quality technology portfolio. Staying on top of the latest scientific developments, you will align your strategy to changing customer demand and the strategy of the EMT unit of which your group is a part. This also means you’ll be responsible for matching staff capacity through recruitment, and developing your team’s skills and competencies. To enable your people to reach out to you, you will be alternating between Eindhoven and Geleen, where your team is based. 

In addition, you will monitor your team’s projects, ensuring deadlines are met, budgets are in control and meaningful results are achieved. You will also liaise with relevant stakeholders, engaging with partners as well as colleagues in other TNO expertise groups and divisions. As a member of our management team, you will contribute to the strengths and performance of the EMT unit. We share an ambition to dramatically accelerate the energy and materials transition. And we foster an inclusive, open and supportive culture, in which you can evolve and develop your career.

You thrive on managing a team that bridges fundamental and applied research geared to solutions with a demonstrable societal impact. Harnessing your communication skills, you inspire, convince and coach your internationally diverse team, enhancing their personal strengths. In addition, you know how to stimulate collaboration with experts across TNO as well as external partners, such as universities and industrial partners. 

Other knowledge and skills you bring to TNO:

• A university degree in a relevant subject;
• A background or a keen interest in materials science or chemistry, which will help you understand what your people are working on, and devise your strategy;
• Experience of managing research teams, including financial and operational management;
• A vision on materials solutions and the drive to work with your fellow MT members to take our unit to a higher level;
• A good command of spoken and written Dutch and English.

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 salary between € 6.418,- and € 9.138,- (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.
• 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.

Please apply before the 9th of May, 2024. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The first round is scheduled for the 23rd of May, 2024. 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.

As you will be working for clients in the domain of defence and security, a Certificate of No Objection issued by AIVD (The Dutch General Information and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.