Scientist Molecular Biology, CBRN Protection

Imagine a soldier in a conflict zone, a first responder at a chemical incident, or a civilian unintentionally exposed to a hazardous substance. Thanks to the research conducted within the CBRN Protection department, they can work safely and are protected against life threatening chemical and biological agents. Within the CBRN Protection department, you work at the frontline of innovation and safety. Do you want to contribute as a Scientist to groundbreaking research with direct societal value? Then we would love to get to know you.

As a Scientist at TNO, you are involved throughout the entire lifecycle of a project: from thinking along with the customer’s question and writing a research proposal, to drafting a (experimental) project plan, developing, building and validating the required setup, carrying out laboratory experiments, and elaborating, reporting and presenting the research results. You make substantive contributions to the development, execution and validation of molecular biological methods and take independent responsibility within ongoing projects.

We are looking for a Scientist to strengthen a team in which microbiologists, molecular biologists, analytical chemists and aerosol physicists work closely together on our research projects. A key part of your work involves conducting applied scientific research in projects focused on the detection and diagnosis of biological agents. For this purpose, molecular and microbiological identification techniques are developed and assessed, for example in terms of speed, reliability and applicability. The work focuses on the development and validation of molecular biological detection and identification methods (e.g. CRISPR Cas) used to detect pathogenic microorganisms in complex matrices. The research is highly applied and aimed at robust deployment under operational conditions.

In addition, research is conducted into accelerating and improving the in depth characterization of relevant microorganisms using techniques such as CRISPR Cas, MALDI TOF MS, LC MS/MS and whole genome sequencing (Nanopore sequencing), including the associated bioinformatics/data analysis. The information generated by your research is essential for the treatment of infected patients, outbreak control, source tracing, and threat and risk analysis. You work in a multidisciplinary team and are given the opportunity to further develop your expertise. The results of your work have a direct societal impact and can save lives in both military and civilian contexts.

You will work within the CBRN Protection department, where we also conduct research into the toxicology of chemical substances and the functioning of potential new medical countermeasures. The department works with a wide range of clients and partners. Our primary client is the Ministry of Defence, but we also carry out projects for and in collaboration with other government organisations, European consortia and industrial partners.

We have access to high quality and complex facilities, including a HighTOX laboratory, an organic synthesis laboratory, BSL 2 and BSL 3 laboratories, animal testing facilities, a (bio)aerosol test chamber and a state of the art mass spectrometry facility.
The department consists of approximately 50 professionals: scientists, researchers, project leaders, consultants and managers with diverse backgrounds and levels of experience. In recent years, the team has become younger through natural turnover and now forms a close knit, dynamic and diverse group in which organic chemists, microbiologists, molecular biologists, analytical chemists, pharmacologists, toxicologists and aerosol physicists work closely together.

Read more about the CBRN Protection department.

​​​​​You are creative, flexible and enthusiastic. You enjoy hands‑on laboratory work and critically evaluate experimental results. You are proactive, customer‑oriented, entrepreneurial, and able to translate customer questions into research and innovative ideas. You enjoy working in a team and like connecting and inspiring colleagues. In addition, you can work independently, are precise and well‑structured with a strong focus on quality, and have excellent command of both English and Dutch, spoken and written.

What else do you bring?

• A completed academic degree (Master’s or PhD) in (medical) microbiology or molecular biology;
• Several years of relevant work experience with molecular biological, genomics and microbiological techniques in a research environment, or a completed PhD;
• Experience working at BSL‑2 and preferably BSL‑3 level is an advantage;
• A high level of applied insight, enabling you to renew and improve existing methods and develop new ones;
• Experience in reporting and publishing research results;
• Ability to work independently, accurately and in a structured manner with attention to quality;
• Some experience with bioinformatics is preferred;
• Interest in the Defence and Security domain.

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 € 3,500 and € 4,300 (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 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 27th 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.

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.