Ecology Researcher (Birds & Bats)

Want to make your mark on our time? Become an Ecology Researcher (Birds & Bats) at TNO in Rijswijk or Petten!

About this position

The rapid rollout of wind energy is crucial for a future-proof and nature-friendly energy system. At TNO, we are working on innovative solutions that both accelerate the energy transition and protect biodiversity. As an Ecology Researcher in TNO’s Wind department, you will work on precisely this challenge. You will research how birds and bats interact with offshore and onshore wind turbines, helping to develop the nature-inclusive wind farms of the future.

What will be your role?

You will work with unique data sets from sources including:

• Advanced bird and bat radars.
• High-quality camera and video monitoring systems.
• Acoustic microphone arrays.
• Additional sensor technologies developed by TNO together with partners.

With your analytical skills, you will combine these data streams to map behaviour, flight paths, habitat use, and susceptibility to collision risk. You will also have the opportunity to apply your talents to other issues related to wind energy and data-driven challenges.

• Analyse, model, and interpret biological and sensory data (image, radar and audio data).
• Develop methods to gain insight into interactions between birds/bats and wind turbines.
• Contribute to the development and validation of new detection systems.
• Write reports, publications and presentations for the commissioning party.
• Work with experts in ecology, data science, monitoring technology, and wind energy.

The insights you generate will be used to redesign and/or operate current and future wind farms to strike the right balance between green energy generation and biodiversity.

What we expect from you

You are driven to accelerate the energy transition. You enjoy working in a diverse team on challenges in not only wind energy and ecology, but other fields as well. You are also able to work independently. You have a committed, motivated and proactive attitude. Working closely with experts in various technical fields, you are eager to learn from them and expand your own in-depth knowledge. Lastly, you have good communication and presentation skills to inform colleagues and partners about your research.

• A Master’s degree or a PhD in a technical or data analysis field, such as data science, computer vision, sensor systems, applied physics, AI/ML, geodata analysis, or similar.
• A demonstrable interest or passion for ecology, birds, and/or bats.
• Experience in programming and data processing (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB, or similar).
• Experience in processing sensor data (images, audio).
• Experience in combining different data streams to generate an overall picture.
• Interest in applying analytical techniques to biological/ecological issues.
• Some work experience is a plus, but not a requirement.
• A proactive attitude, curiosity and a passion for multidisciplinary cooperation.
• A good command of the English language, as you will be working with an international team and international partners.
• Good communication skills (reporting, presenting, consulting).

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 € 4,000 and € 4,500 (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.

Perhaps you would like to grow your career in the direction of commerce or consultancy? Or would you like to become a project manager? Immerse yourself in sustainable innovations? Or carve out a career as a technical expert?

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.
• An employer that values and encourages diverse talent, with initiatives like the Female Leadership Program, our Rainbow Community and round tables on inclusion topics.
• 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.
• 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 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.

‘What energises you?’, is what Michelle Mol always asks a candidate. ‘A crucial question, because I believe someone can only truly excel if they are doing work they are passionate about. It’s not just about a person’s capabilities, but also, more importantly, about what drives them and what makes them happy. At TNO you can feel the passion everywhere. That’s what makes working here so special.’ Michelle Mol Recruiter