Scientist Ship Design for Alternative Fuels | Delft

A liveable future for everyone – that is what we, as the Naval and Offshore Structures department, contribute to every day. We design, analyse and test a wide range of mechanical structures for the maritime and offshore industry and for defence applications. Safety under the most extreme conditions, throughout the entire life cycle of these structures, is always our top priority. The transition to alternative energy carriers such as methanol and nuclear power brings major engineering and design challenges. How do systems and structures behave under these new conditions? How can regulations be developed to enable safe introduction? What happens in the event of a collision? If these questions spark your interest and you want to contribute to safe and sustainable ships of the future, this position may be the perfect fit for you.

As Starter Scientist Ship Design, you will research the use of alternative fuels in shipping and their impact on ship design and structural integrity. Together with the team, you will analyse, model and experimentally investigate maritime structures and systems aimed at the safe and cost-effective implementation of innovative solutions.

You will apply your knowledge of materials, structural mechanics and risk analysis to develop solutions that extend service life, increase safety and improve economic viability. Our research focuses on methanol, hydrogen and ammonia, with growing attention to (small) nuclear systems and the associated safety challenges.

By helping to remove technical and regulatory barriers, your work will directly support the maritime industry in adopting these fuels. You will also contribute to the development of new regulations and support the safe and timely introduction of alternative fuels in the maritime sector.

You will work in a multidisciplinary team of experts from various fields and collaborate closely with clients and partners within and beyond the department. In addition, you will help strengthen TNO’s visibility through publications and presentations.

You will join the Naval and Offshore Structures department, consisting of 57 motivated experts with backgrounds in maritime engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, applied physics and mechanical engineering. Thanks to our well-equipped mechanical testing laboratories, practical and theoretical knowledge go hand in hand, enabling us to solve highly complex problems and validate innovative structural solutions.

Collaboration with other TNO laboratories and experts allows us to address additional challenges such as fluid dynamics and blast and shock resistance. Our research ranges from the safe use of alternative fuels on board ships and the structural safety of offshore wind turbines to shock- and explosion-resistant ship structures. We work on today’s key challenges: the energy transition and increasing safety at sea.

• You hold a completed academic degree in engineering (e.g. Maritime Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Civil Engineering), with a focus on the design of systems and structures.
• You have a strong affinity with the maritime sector, particularly in the field of (alternative) fuels.
• You combine a solid theoretical background with practical insight into structural behaviour and the consequences of design choices in systems and structures.
• Knowledge of and affinity with thermodynamics is considered an advantage.
• In addition to technical expertise, you possess strong communication skills and a client- and result-oriented mindset, enabling you to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams towards practical, applicable solutions.
• You have an excellent command of both Dutch and English, spoken and written.

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 € 3,520 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.

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 plus a flexible holiday (prorated) that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various employee networks that foster connection and give advice.
• 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 or 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 25th of May, 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.

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 Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will have to undergo a security screening. Read more about security screening.