Advisor for Sustainable and Future-Proof Cities and Infrastructure

The built environment is facing major challenges: climate-neutral cities, circular construction, future-proof (energy) infrastructure, and digitalization. These developments require not only technological innovation, but also innovation in strategy, governance, and the social domain. That’s where you come in. As a junior researcher/advisor, you’ll contribute to projects where we support governments, businesses, and other stakeholders in making complex decisions related to these transitions.

• Analyze decision-making processes and governance issues related to transitions in the built environment.
• Translate technological innovations to societal and governance contexts: you’ll help think about how new technologies, models, and applications can be embedded in society, and what forms of cooperation, policy, or participation are needed.
• Organize work sessions, stakeholder dialogues, and workshops, bringing together different parties to jointly gain insights and set direction.
• Set up and conduct research, often in collaboration with other (technical) TNO colleagues and with external partners such as knowledge institutes, governments, and companies.
• Write reports, articles, and project proposals.

You don’t have to be an expert yet, but you are curious, collaborative, and analytical. You see the bigger picture and can switch between content, interests, and context. You also recognize yourself in the following profile:

• An interdisciplinary background, for example a technical degree combined with an interest in social sciences, various fields of study, or an interdisciplinary master’s.
• You are a recent graduate or have up to 1 year of work experience.
• You are interested in societal transitions within the spatial domain, such as (residential) construction, energy, and infrastructure.
• You have an affinity with decision-making and collaboration between governments, businesses, and societal organizations.
• You can communicate clearly and write well, both in Dutch and English.
• You enjoy working in a team and know how to engage others with your ideas.

You’ll be part of the Sustainability & Spatial Governance department—a close-knit group of about 30 colleagues with diverse backgrounds. We work in a collegial and informal atmosphere, with plenty of room for initiative, collaboration, and personal growth. As part of TNO Vector, you’ll be working at the intersection of knowledge and policy, contributing to solutions for the societal challenges of tomorrow.

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 € 3.385,- and € 4.500,- (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.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

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.
• Access to our Talent Development Programme.
• Networking opportunities and great activities organized by Jong TNO.
• 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, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before 24th of August, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on 1st and 3rd September, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for 11th of September, 2025. 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 Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.