Internship | Disaster proof 3D printed buildings

About this position

How can we design a resilient, disaster-proof, and low carbon-footprint building using 3D printing of concrete (3DCP)? 3DCP has gained significant traction in the last decade, quickly scaling up from architectural elements to large buildings, bridges, and other infrastructures. It offers unique design opportunities and allows for largely automated construction. 3DCP can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a building by reducing the amount of concrete needed, integrating structural elements, optimizing geometry for structural design, and using locally sourced materials (e.g., sand, gravel). The aim of this MSc graduation project is to explore how to use 3DCP for resilient building design that can withstand natural disasters (e.g., fire, hurricane, earthquakes) and human-made threats (explosions, gunfire). The project is a collaboration between TNO and the TU Delft Faculty of Architecture & the Built Environment.

What will be your role?

The thesis topic is broadly formulated and will be tailored based on your interests and background. A few areas that are particularly relevant for the design of disaster-proof 3DCP buildings:

• Design development by theoretical and numerical methods;
• Development of fabrication methods and validation with prototypes;
• Load testing in laboratory (e.g., static, dynamic, ballistic/blast).

You will perform this assignment in TNO’s department of Personal Protection and Explosives Safety (PPES). Our field of research is unique and challenging. We are engaged in the development and testing of protection concepts for people and critical infrastructure against ballistic threats and explosions. In addition, we work on safe storage, transport, and transshipment of ammunition. With our support, new protection technologies are developed that are ultimately used by Defence, the Police, and civil domains.

What we expect from you

You are in the final stages of your master’s degree in architecture, structural engineering, or a related field and are interested in building design for extreme environments. You can develop new designs based on analytical and numerical methods. You are also interested in the practical side of the problem, like developing fabrication methods and building prototypes to validate your models. One of the possibilities is to perform ballistic testing on 3DCP prototypes at the TNO facility in The Hague Ypenburg. Finally, you are able to concisely report your scientific findings.

What you'll get in return

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you a chance to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope 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. 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.

At TNO, we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we can develop innovations that make a real difference in society.

The selection process

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerned department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below. Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the program of the study.
• The confirmation of the educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.

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 using the ‘apply now’ button.

More information about this vacancy?

If you require further information, you can contact Dieter van der Pol at dieter.vanderpol@tno.nl.