Dry-coating Engineer for Next-Generation Battery Technology

Want to make your mark on our time? Become a Dry-Coating Engineer at TNO in Eindhoven!

About this position

TNO at Holst Centre works with a range of pre-pilot to pilot level battery production technologies in the fast-growing domain of Next-Generation Energy Storage. The aim is to employ the unique thin-film and innovative/additive manufacturing technologies background of Holst Centre to contribute to the development and cheaper production of next generation battery technologies such as high-voltage lithium (sodium) metal batteries and solid-state batteries. To this end, TNO at Holst Centre works closely with the local and international ecosystem of battery and battery component producers. The aim of the program is to accelerate the much-needed energy transition while concurrently increasing the earning power of high-tech companies active in this domain. In order to translate new process technologies such as dry coating into tangible battery concepts, we are looking for a battery engineer as an addition to our battery team.

What will be your role?

You will join the Thin-Film Electronics team to develop and realize the department’s Next-Generation Battery Technology program, leveraging Holst Centre’s strengths in thin-film and innovative/additive manufacturing technologies background. Your daily activities will be varied since you will join a multidisciplinary team that executes multiple programs and projects with partners from academia and industry in parallel. Your technical tasks will include executing carefully designed experiments to achieve cheaper and more sustainable next generation battery manufacturing through dry-coating. This will involve designing, setting up and upkeeping laboratory equipment; assembling single- and multi-layered pouch cells to demonstrate performance of innovative battery components; and developing battery cell formation protocols to reduce cell conditioning costs.

• Design and optimize laboratory-scale processes for solvent-free electrode coating using a range of binder materials, including PTFE and F-free binders.
• Design, with the program’s battery scientists, and execute experiments to contribute to other program goals.
• Designing, installing and up-keeping laboratory equipment.
• Assembling coin and single- and multi-layered pouch cells.
• Performing physico-chemical (EDX), morphological (using SEM), and electrochemical measurements (galvanostatic cycling, EIS, CV).
• Performing mechanical testing, including tensile strength and peel strength measurements, to evaluate structural integrity and current collector adhesion.
• Compiling reports and presenting the work in critical manner to internal and external stakeholders.
• Contributing to IP.

What we expect from you

• BSc or master’s degree which relates to the battery field.
• At least 2 years of experience in research and development settings in battery technology, with hands-on experience with dry electrode coating, cell assembly, and electrochemical testing of coin and pouch batteries.
• Pro-active and critical attitude with a clear goal in mind.
• Hands-on and taking responsibility, able to organize practical work in an efficient and cooperative way.
• Excellent communication skills in English.

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. In addition, you will be given every opportunity to develop yourself.

• 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 that can be used on a cultural, religious, or otherwise important day of your choosing.
• 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.
• Flexible working hours, the possibility to work parttime (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• Extensive relocation package for international candidates.
• A good pension scheme.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life, and for a strong economy. We make knowledge and technology available for the common good. There is space and support for your talent and ambition, and you work with people who will challenge, inspire, and 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.