Modelling Scientist Plasma Chemistry | Geleen

The chemical industry is facing a profound transition towards a sustainable future, driven by the integration of renewable energy sources and the adoption of biobased and circular feedstocks. Together with your colleagues, you play a pioneering role in this transformation and develop advanced plasma technologies as a crucial catalyst for the sustainability of large-scale chemical processes. These innovations are indispensable for achieving climate targets and ensuring the industry is future-proof.

You will lead modelling work around electrified plasma-based reactors. This involves working with different levels of models: from simple 0D/1D reactor models to advanced 3D CFD simulations. These models encompass chemical kinetics, heat transfer, and mass transport phenomena. You will investigate how electrified plasma affects reactor performance. You will also carry out sensitivity analyses and parametric studies to understand how different operating conditions influence yield, selectivity, and efficiency.

In addition, you will help optimise reactor design and support the validation of the models with experimental data or data from pilot plants. This may also mean designing and interpreting experiments, and collaborating with colleagues at various TNO locations such as Petten, Delft, and Eindhoven, as well as with national and international partners.

You will document your modelling methods, write technical reports, plan next steps in model development, and present results to both internal and external stakeholders. You will also contribute to scientific publications, conferences, and potentially patent applications.

You will work within the Biobased Circular Technology (BCT) department, which focuses on the thermochemical conversion of carbon-containing feedstocks into sustainable chemicals, materials, fuels, electricity, and heat. The team is based in Petten but works closely with colleagues in Eindhoven, Delft, Utrecht, and Geleen, among others.

Your place of work is Geleen, right at the heart of the Brightlands Chemelot Campus. There, you will collaborate with colleagues (programme management) and with Brightsite partners and industrial parties on the Chemelot site. Brightsite is a collaboration between Sitech Services, TNO, Brightlands Chemelot Campus, and Maastricht University, aimed at groundbreaking innovations in electrification and plasma technology for large-scale chemical processes.

Read more about the Biobased Circular Technology research group within the Energy and Materials Transition unit at TNO. More information about Brightsite can be found here.

In this role, you work independently, but you are never alone. You liaise daily with partners from the field and with TNO colleagues such as scientists, engineers, and business developers with in-depth knowledge of plasma technology. Together, you define the technical challenges and translate model insights into innovative solutions for the chemical industry. Your ability to coach, connect, and collaborate across disciplines is essential for advancing emerging technologies for the chemical industry. Key stakeholders include companies throughout the plasma value chain, as well as national and international government agencies. You have a proactive, collaborative attitude and the ability to build networks.

In addition, you bring:

• A doctorate (PhD) in Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Proven expertise in CFD modelling with tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, COMSOL, STAR-CCM, or similar, with a focus on reactive flows, transport, and thermal behaviour
• Familiarity with low-order reactor modelling, chemical kinetics and/or high-temperature reactor technology
• The ability to translate model insights into concrete design optimisations
• Experience with reactor scale-up
• Strong analytical skills and a problem-solving mindset
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and oral

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 [€ X,XXX] and [€ X,XXX] (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.
• 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, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 16th of November, 2025. The selection process comprises two interview rounds.The preliminary interview takes place on November 26, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for December 2nd, 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.