Senior Scientist circular economy | Utrecht

Are you a leader within the materials transition? Become a Senior Scientist Integrator Circularity & Sustainability Modelling at TNO in Utrecht!

About this position

Our climate is changing, air quality is deteriorating and biodiversity is under pressure. In addition, the availability of critical raw materials is decreasing while consumption is increasing. It is therefore important to make the transition to a sustainable society and a circular economy. As a Senior Scientist Integrator, you will join the Circularity and Sustainability Impact (CSI) department at TNO, part of the unit Energy & Materials Transition. Our team, consisting of around 60 researchers, consultants, technicians, and project leaders, is dedicated to provide science-based, independent and comprehensive insights to guide partners in the forecasting, assessment (e.g. environmental or economical assessment), evaluation, continuous improvement and increased competitiveness towards sustainability and circularity. Do you want to use your leadership for innovations within the materials transition? Then respond to this vacancy and discover how you can contribute to a more sustainable world.

What will be your role?

In the CSI department, we study the circularity and sustainability impacts of key technologies and economic sectors. Our focus areas include novel chemicals and materials (such as fuels and plastics), electronics and consumer goods, renewable energy and battery storage systems, building and infrastructure, and waste management. You will be part of our team, that develops an integrated modeling framework to evaluate consequences of actions to move towards a decarbonized and circular economy at national, EU and global scales. As senior scientist integrator, you provide high-level advice and support towards a sustainable, resilient industry and society, by applying the model framework. For example, on policy making and investments, contributing to a circular economy. You work with and for various clients. Think about government, European commission, but also with companies and universities. You know the challenges customers in industry and government face and how you can help them to take the next step in the transition towards a circular, renewable, CO2 neutral and competitive industry. To create, substantiate, and ensure fact- and model based insights, you have a key role in further development of our integrated model framework, that enables a consistent, systemic, and integrated assessment for decisions in the transition. Together with other experts in the department, you identify future questions that need to be answered regarding the circular industry, to advance the material and energy transition. You will strategically determine how to strengthen the department’s knowledge base and convert these insights into projects with key knowledge questions that reflect the core of the matter, seen internally and externally as essential to address.

What we expect from you

You are enthusiastic and eager about addressing societally relevant sustainability challenges. You have a passion for working with complex models and using them to provide advice on sustainability improvements for new chemicals, materials, products, and economic sectors. While knowledge of chemical and process engineering principles is beneficial, the key requirement is the ability to systematically and methodically assess sustainability. You will be part of a high-quality network of research partners, knowledge centers and industry partners and are able to expand this network. You have a demonstrated scientific background in material flow analysis, dynamic stock flow modelling and prospective environmental and economic impact modelling and can integrate these in order to identify policies and pathways to reach a sustainable production and consumption system. As a senior scientist integrator, you will guide the multi-disciplinary team in developing and applying the current model suite to support decision-making by our clients. You are not afraid to ask critical questions and are eager to tackle new challenges alongside your colleagues. Additionally, you have the following qualifications and interests:

• You have at least 10 years of relevant experience in high-level advise towards governments and industry partners on sustainability and circular economy and used to work in complex multi-level stakeholder groups, by using integrated assessment models.
• An education in process technology, chemistry, industrial ecology or similar at university level, and you know what information will help the sector to become more circular.
• You are excited to contribute to and steer the process of creation of new scientific ideas and have the ability to connect technology with market and socially driven challenges. You can balance various elements for guiding choices, including practicality, scientific quality, and societal impact.
• You have a pioneering mentality and have good verbal and digital communication skills, energy, creativity and curiosity, to be able to convince and inspire colleagues, partners and clients. In the team you can coach, support and guide scientists and contribute to their professional development and dedicated team building capabilities.
• You are proficient in Dutch and English, both written and spoken.

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. 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.
• 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 part-time (32 or 36 hours) and the possibility of working from home.
• 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. 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.

The selection process

Please apply before the 12th of January, 2025. The selection process comprises three interview rounds. The preliminary interview takes place on the 24th of January, 2025. The second interview round has been scheduled for the 30th of January, 2025. The third interview is yet to be planned. 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.

Has this job opening sparked your interest?

Then we’d like to hear from you! Please contact us for more information about the job or the selection process. To apply, please upload your CV and covering letter.

We are TNO: This is our time

This is the time for us to find innovative solutions that will make an impact. The time to lead the world in safety and security, make our lives healthier, and take sustainability to the next level.