Internship | Exploring Future Energy Carriers for Next‑Gen Bio‑based Processes

In this assignment, the student will explore how future energy carriers such as ammonia and methanol can create new synergies in emerging bio based process technologies. Instead of serving merely as hydrogen vector, these carriers may offer additional functional benefits, such as serving as reactants, solvents or intermediates in catalytic bio based pathways. The study investigates how these carriers can be utilised to create synergy and what this means for designing efficient (bio-based) fuels and chemical production processes.

The student will conduct a comprehensive literature review by evaluating reports from academia and industry, to define what (future) industrial process technologies are most viable for energy carrier implementation. The work may include the use of system modelling tools for simple mass energy balances, but the focus remains on literature study, critical analysis, and structured reporting.

The BCT group comprises approximately 40 colleagues and is a highly international team, with members from the Netherlands, across the EU, and beyond. Our work includes technology development and applied research in the thermochemical conversion of biogenic feedstocks and wastes for conversion into energy, fuels and chemicals.

We are looking for a university student in chemistry or chemical engineering that:

• Is proficient in English / Dutch.
• Has a strong interest in the energy transition.
• Has experience in techno-economic assessment of (bio-based) processes.
• Has experience in chemical synthesis in laboratory environment.
• Is available for the project duration of 5 to 10 months.

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-, hbo- and 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, equity 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.