About This Position The focus of this internship is on the recycling of photovoltaic (PV) modules, which are composed of PV material, metallisation, connections, and encapsulated with polymer or glass. With the increasing installation of PV systems, efficient recycling processes are essential, especially as many modules approach their end of life. At TNO, we have developed a successful laser-based process to open the PV module stack. The research will be conducted at TNO's High Tech Campus in Eindhoven. ## The Role Your primary responsibility will be to recover wafer pieces from the opened stack after glass and encapsulant delamination, allowing access to valuable silver and high-purity silicon. You will explore various separation methods, both chemical and mechanical/physical. The assignment can be tailored to your interests, involving the development of wafer separation techniques and material characterization (using methods like SEM/EDS, optical microscopy, peel testing, DSC, TGA), data analysis, hypothesis formulation, and experiment design. The work will balance hands-on experimentation with data analysis, with flexibility to adjust based on your skills and preferences. ## Requirements - Background in chemistry or material science - Strong hands-on skills, including experience with light chemistry - High motivation, curiosity, and problem-solving skills - Effective communication skills for team collaboration and presenting results - Minimum project duration of 3-4 months, preferably 6+ months, ideally during your MSc studies - Must be affiliated with a university during the internship ## What We Offer An internship at TNO provides an impactful environment where research and practice converge. You will gain insights into practical operations, develop your skills, and build a professional network. Additionally, you'll receive: - A professional and innovative internship setting with contributions to societal and technological challenges - Personal supervision focused on your learning objectives and development - Opportunities to gain relevant work experience and develop both technical and professional skills - Access to a laptop and necessary facilities for effective work - A monthly internship allowance of €615 for full-time interns, applicable to MSc, BSc, and vocational education students - Up to eight hours of leave per month for a full-time internship to balance your studies and personal life - Travel expense contributions if you're not eligible for a student travel card - Free membership to Jong TNO, a network for young colleagues with social and professional development activities. ## TNO as an Employer At TNO, our people are our greatest asset. Their curiosity and expertise drive impactful research and innovations that enhance societal wellbeing. We foster an inspiring and inclusive environment where colleagues can excel, innovate, and grow. Your talent and ambition will thrive at TNO, where you will collaborate with experts and explore advanced technology while pushing boundaries. Together, we aim to help society, government, and businesses progress more rapidly through knowledge and innovation. ## The Selection Process You can apply for this internship until November 3, 2026. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email. TNO will arrange an appropriate internship agreement. For any questions regarding the internship content or application procedure, please contact the listed person. A Certificate of Conduct (VOG) will also be requested if you start an internship with us. Important to Know Before Applying Before the internship begins, an agreement must be signed. TNO uses the UNL-template for Dutch university students, supplemented with specific agreements. For students from foreign institutions or MBO programs, TNO's internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign other agreements. The educational institution must confirm your enrollment for the internship duration and that it is part of your study program. Interns must have a registered residential address in the Netherlands at the start of the internship; remote internships from abroad are not possible. International students must obtain a BSN (Dutch citizen service number) before starting the internship, which can take several weeks, so initiate this process early.