Consultant Biobased Construction Materials

Do you want to play a key role in the development and upscaling of biobased construction materials (excluding wood)? Do you have the knowledge and insight to translate research results into concrete product innovations and adjustments to production processes? Then the position of Consultant Biobased Construction Materials at TNO is ideal for you.

As a Consultant Biobased Construction Materials, you work at the intersection of materials research, product development, and industrial application. You not only investigate the physical and mechanical properties of biobased construction materials, but also translate this knowledge into:

• Functional product designs for the construction sector.
• Optimizations of production processes (e.g. pressing, drying, bonding, extrusion, forming).
• Adjustments to machinery so that manufacturers can produce new biobased materials efficiently, safely, and at scale.

Your activities include, among others:

• Characterizing biobased materials (excluding wood) (strength, moisture behavior, thermal properties, degradation).
• Investigating how variation in raw materials and binders affects product quality and production stability.
• Translating material data into design guidelines for new products.
• Advising on required process conditions and machine settings (temperature, pressure, speed, moisture content).
• Collaborating with manufacturers to optimize prototype lines and enable upscaling.
• Testing products against standards, regulations, and performance requirements.
• Conducting laboratory and field experiments to validate product behavior under real-world conditions.

You move seamlessly between laboratories, pilot setups, factories, engineering teams, and knowledge partners. You ensure that knowledge is translated into concrete, manufacturable, and scalable biobased products. You have experience with IP-related issues, particularly regarding (biobased) adhesives, additives, and production processes.

Why this role is unique

• You build bridges between research, material development, and industrial production challenges.
• You work with state-of-the-art laboratories as well as practice-oriented pilot installations.
• You have direct impact on the manufacturability, reliability, and market introduction of biobased construction products.
• You work within a growing multidisciplinary team accelerating the biobased transition in the Netherlands.
• You have access to a broad network of manufacturers, construction producers, policymakers, and researchers.

You are analytically strong, practically minded, and able to switch between material science and process engineering. You have demonstrable experience in solving technical challenges in production lines and in translating material behavior into manufacturable biobased construction products.

In addition, you have:

• A completed MSc degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a comparable field.
• At least five years of experience in materials research, product development, or process optimization.
• Knowledge of the physical and mechanical properties of biobased materials.
• Experience with laboratory testing and preferably pilot or production environments.
• Understanding of production processes such as pressing, drying, extrusion, composite forming, or panel production.
• Strong communication skills in Dutch (at least B2 level) and English.
• Motivation to share knowledge through reports, publications, or interaction with the market.

Ambition to grow into an expert in biobased production processes? Then TNO is the right place for you.

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 € 4,600 and € 6,700 (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, equity and inclusion.

Please apply before the 1st of March, 2026. 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 Conduct (VOG) is required before starting a new job at TNO.