Internship | Exploring Future Energy Carriers for Next‑Gen Bio‑based Processes

About this internship

In this assignment, the student will explore how future energy carriers such as ammonia and methanol can create new synergies in emerging bio based process technologies. Instead of serving merely as hydrogen vector, these carriers may offer additional functional benefits, such as serving as reactants, solvents or intermediates in catalytic bio based pathways. The study investigates how these carriers can be utilised to create synergy and what this means for designing efficient (bio-based) fuels and chemical production processes.

What will be your role?

The student will conduct a comprehensive literature review by evaluating reports from academia and industry, to define what (future) industrial process technologies are most viable for energy carrier implementation. The work may include the use of system modelling tools for simple mass energy balances, but the focus remains on literature study, critical analysis, and structured reporting.

The BCT group comprises approximately 40 colleagues and is a highly international team, with members from the Netherlands, across the EU, and beyond. Our work includes technology development and applied research in the thermochemical conversion of biogenic feedstocks and wastes for conversion into energy, fuels and chemicals.

What we expect from you

We are looking for a university student in chemistry or chemical engineering that:

• Is proficient in English / Dutch.
• Has a strong interest in the energy transition.
• Has experience in techno-economic assessment of (bio-based) processes.
• Has experience in chemical synthesis in laboratory environment.
• Is available for the project duration of 5 to 10 months.

What you'll get in return

You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. 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.