Senior Scientist Air Quality and Deposition Modelling

About this position

Within the Energy and Material Transition (EMT) Unit, the research-group AER (Air quality and Emissions Research) analyses the impact of human activity on air quality and atmospheric deposition to ecosystems. The Research Group develops state of the art emission and chemistry transport models (LOTOS-EUROS and DALES) and validates these against ground-based observations and novel satellite products. The models allow to predict and trace the composition, origin and expected distribution of a wide range of substances in the air – such as particulate matter, ammonia, nitrogen-dioxide, ozone, etc. – and to address policy questions related to air quality (anywhere in the world). AER also has the expertise to assist government policymakers and decision-makers in the private sector when it comes to transitioning to a more sustainable, cleaner and socioeconomically more desirable economy. Our areas of focus and hence our staff are at the heart of debate in society.

What will be your role?

We are looking for a senior researcher with expertise in air pollution or deposition modelling with experience in developing chemistry transport models in an iterative process with evaluation techniques using in-situ (flux) measurements, to join our team at TNO. We currently foresee an increase in our research portfolio on nitrogen (deposition) modelling using our model portfolio. The successful candidate will work on the development, application, validation and interpretation of our modelling chain, which may include 1D deposition modelling in comparison to flux measurements, emission modelling and the more complex atmospheric chemistry transport model LOTOS-EUROS.

Read more about Climate and Air Quality at TNO.

What we expect from you

You are passionate about working with atmospheric chemistry transport models and large datasets. Moreover, you are eager to contribute to solving societally relevant environmental problems, just like the rest of the team. You are not afraid to ask critical questions, take initiative, and act as a scientific sparring partner for colleagues and stakeholders. You bring your own network and are able to expand it by representing TNO as an expert in air qualityand nitrogen deposition in several national and international networks. Moreover, you are able to develop new initiatives and scientifically coordinate a portfolio of related projects.

You also have the following to offer:

• A PhD or Master in Meteorology, Earth sciences, Mathematics, Physics or a similar field.
• At least 7 years of working experience (after your PhD) with chemistry transport modelling (LOTOS-EUROS or a similar eulerian model).
• Demonstrated experience with inverse modelling and/or deposition modelling, preferably related to nitrogen compounds.
• Experience in scientifically leading projects, for example in the role of lead scientist or EU work package leader, including guiding junior scientists and safeguarding scientific quality.
• Expertise in model evaluation and atmospheric chemistry.
• Strong programming skills (Python and/or Fortran).
• Proven capacity to acquire projects, including contributing to proposals, interacting with clients, and translating scientific questions into funded research.
• An outgoing and communicative personality, comfortable representing TNO in meetings, workshops and international collaborations.
• Excellent level of written and spoken English; Dutch would be an advantage.

What you'll get in return

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 € 6,000 and € 7,850 (based on your knowledge and experience), 8% holiday pay, a 13^th 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.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• We offer a comprehensive and flexible mobility plan that also includes full compensation for public transportation for commuting and business travel.
• 33 days annual leave plus a flexible holiday that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing (on a full-time basis).
• An employer working towards a respectful, inclusive, and equitable work environment where every employee can flourish, with various initiatives such as Jong TNO, numerous expertise based guilds, Rainbow Community and Round Tables on diverse inclusion topics.
• 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.
• A good pension scheme.

Read more about tailoring your benefits package.

TNO as an employer

Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.

Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.

At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.

The selection process

Please apply before Sunday August 23, 2026. The selection process comprises two interview rounds. The preliminary interview round will take place on Wednesday September 2nd, 2026 and Thursday September 3rd, 2026. The second interview round has been scheduled for Wednesday September 9th, 2026 and will also take place at our Utrecht office. 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.