Scientist Dynamic Energy System Modelling and Optimization

Become a Scientist at TNO in Rijswijk and make your mark on our time.

About this position

You will be working in the Energy System Modelling team within the department Heat Transfer and Fluid Dynamics. This team focuses on modelling and optimization of energy assets and infrastructure (hydrogen, natural gas, CO2, electricity). We hold a worldwide leading position on integral design and operational optimization for energy system modelling.

What will be your role?

We apply this knowledge to advise companies and governments on how to optimally implement tomorrow’s energy carriers in their networks. Our range of projects combine fast-paced business-to-business with deep research in long-term collaborations.

In this role, you will translate complex problem definitions into clear and workable models that form the foundation of our analyses. You will contribute to the ongoing development of PyDOLPHYN, our in house tool for dynamic asset modelling, helping to enhance its capabilities and ensure it meets the evolving needs of our projects. Throughout your work, you will maintain close interaction with clients—discussing their questions, identifying the necessary input data, and agreeing on the most suitable modelling approach. After the simulations are properly setup and run, you will dive into the results, analyse system behaviour and performance, discuss outcomes with the team and present your findings to clients and stakeholders in a clear and compelling way.

Our modelling activities on energy systems will expand in various directions in the coming years, including further integration of:

• Future proof energy systems, including resilience aspects and uncertainty quantification.
• Multi-commodity energy systems, including heat, hydrogen and natural gas and electricity.
• Physical and market models for energy components/assets.

The research group is internationally oriented in both projects as well as its team members. English is our working language. You will be working in a highly motivated team who finds innovative solutions for complex challenges. The team has experts that know how to design, optimize and control digitalized, multi-commodity energy networks, based on physics, for our current and future energy systems. Next to content, the team has an eye for social interactions besides work. In addition, it is likely that you will work with experts from different departments within the Netherlands.

What we expect from you

You possess strong analytical skills and are able to understand complex mathematical problems, translating them into high quality software solutions and clear insights. In your collaboration with clients and partners, you communicate clearly and effectively, while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives. You enjoy working in a team and have a demonstrated affinity with energy system modelling, particularly with physical network systems.

Other skills and knowledge you bring to TNO:

• A Master’s or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Systems and Control, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar field.
• A background in optimization.
• Python programming experience.
• Nice to have: experience with version control software such as Git.
• Familiarity with electricity network modelling is a plus.

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 € 3,500 and € 4,100 (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.

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.
• 34 days annual leave on a full-time basis.
• 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 of 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.

TNO as an employer

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