Internship | PFAS-Free Polymeric Materials for High-Tech Applications

About this positionPFAS-containing materials are increasingly under pressure due to their environmental persistence and tightening regulations. At TNO, we work with industrial partners to accelerate the development and validation of PFAS-free polymer alternatives for demanding applications, including semiconductor manufacturing, energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and CO₂ storage.Replacing PFAS-based polymers is technically challenging because these materials often combine chemical resistance, durability, low friction, and long-term reliability. This internship focuses on identifying, testing, and validating promising PFAS-free materials under realistic operating conditions.What will be your role?You will contribute to experimental research on PFAS-free polymer materials. Depending on the project needs and your interests, your work may include material selection, formulation development, performance testing, degradation studies, and application validation.You will design and perform experiments using techniques such as tensile testing, DMA, DSC, TGA, microscopy, surface characterization, wear testing, chemical compatibility testing, and high-pressure or high-temperature exposure. You will work closely with TNO researchers and industrial partners to assess material performance and identify viable alternatives.The internship duration is at least 4 months, with longer periods possible depending on project requirements and the candidate’s preference.What we expect from youTNO is an independent research organisation that develops practical innovations for industry and society. Within this internship, you will work on a relevant sustainability challenge at the interface of materials science, high-tech applications, and industrial innovation.You will receive professional supervision, access to advanced laboratory facilities, and the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with direct industrial relevance. TNO also supports your personal and professional development and provides suitable internship compensation.What you'll get in returnAn internship at TNO means working in an environment where substance and impact are central. You will become part of a knowledge organisation where research and practice come together, and where experts collaborate on solutions to current societal and technological challenges.Your internship is a period in which you can discover what suits you, where your strengths lie and what you would like to learn next. You are part of a professional working environment, gain insight into how things work in practice, and have the opportunity to build experience that goes beyond this internship alone. For many students, an internship is therefore also a first step in discovering whether TNO could be a potential next step after graduation.In addition, we offer you:A professional and innovative internship environment in which you actively contribute to societal and technological challenges, working alongside leading experts in your field.Personal and dedicated supervision, with focus on your learning objectives, development and study assignment.Room to develop: you gain relevant work experience, develop both your subject-specific and professional skills, and build a valuable network.Use of a laptop and the facilities you need to perform your work effectively.A monthly internship allowance of € 615 for a full-time internship, for MSc, BSc and vocational education (MBO) students.Up to eight hours of leave per internship month for a full-time internship, allowing you to balance your internship with your studies and personal life.A contribution towards travel expenses if you are not entitled to a student travel card.A free membership to Jong TNO: the network for young colleagues, where you can meet other TNO colleagues and participate in sports activities, professional and personal development activities, and social events such as the annual ski trip.TNO as an employerOur people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise and entrepreneurial mindset make it possible to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. That is why we invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy and continue to grow.Your talent and ambition have every opportunity to flourish at TNO. You work with experts (both within and beyond TNO), have access to advanced technology and the freedom to explore, experiment and innovate. Our strength lies in independence, reliability and collaboration. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. By working with businesses and government, and by connecting different perspectives, we strengthen our innovative capability and create responsible, meaningful results.At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you turn knowledge into concrete innovations or ventures that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship. And in doing so, you make your mark on our time.The selection processYou can apply for this internship position until the 2nd of October, 2026. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.TNO will arrange an appropriate internship agreement. If you have any questions about the content of the internship or the application procedure, you can contact the person listed below.If you start an internship with us, we will also ask you to provide a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).Important to know before applying:Before the start of the internship, an internship agreement must be signed. For students enrolled at a Dutch university or university of applied sciences, TNO uses the UNL-template, supplemented with several TNO-specific agreements. For students from foreign educational institutions and MBO (secondary vocational education) programmes, 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:you are enrolled at the educational institution for the duration of the internship, and;the internship forms part of your study programme.The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.Interns at TNO must have a registered residential address in the Netherlands at the start of the internship. Carrying out internship activities from abroad is not possible.Are you an international student? Please note that you must have a BSN (Dutch citizen service number) before the start of your internship. Applying for a BSN can take several weeks, so make sure to start this process well in advance.