Vacancy number: A-2-2600074
Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research - Eindhoven (Nederland)
For our client, Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research, we are looking for an Interim Project Manager.
Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research - Eindhoven (Nederland)
For our client, Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research, we are looking for an Interim Project Manager.
Keywords
- Interim Project Manager
- Self-Driving Laboratory
- Electrochemistry
- R&D Project Management
- Hardware-Software Integration
Profile
DIFFER (Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research), located on the TU/e Science Park in Eindhoven, is building a Self-Driving Laboratory for Electrochemistry (SDL4EC). This integrated platform combines high-throughput materials generation, rapid characterization, performance screening, traceable data infrastructure, and AI-guided experimental planning. Hardware has been purchased and installed, and software development is underway. The next critical step is integrating both into one operational platform.As Interim Project Manager, you will take charge of the SDL4EC project (75%) and the LiMeS lab project (25%). You report to the Head of Facilities & Instrumentation and work closely with the principal investigators.
Your main responsibilities include:
- Analysing the current status of the SDL4EC project, developing a revised integrated project plan, and reactivating the project team.
- Setting clear goals, deadlines, and resource frameworks, ensuring effective collaboration between the hardware and software teams.
- Managing human and financial resources for SDL4EC and providing progress reports to the Steering Group, DIFFER Management Team, and NWO, while ensuring continued momentum on the LiMeS lab project.
Who we're looking for
You are an experienced interim project manager with a bachelor's degree (HBO or higher) and a background in hybrid project management. You bring a fresh perspective, are not easily deterred, and are comfortable initiating change within complex, multidisciplinary environments. Experience in R&D or research institutes is an advantage, as is familiarity with hardware/software product development or instrumentation.You are a strong communicator in both Dutch and English, with the interpersonal skills to bridge the gap between hardware and software teams. You build effective working relationships quickly and operate with a proactive, structured approach. Physical presence at DIFFER's Eindhoven campus is required 80% of the time.
Department
The SDL4EC project sits within the Facilities & Instrumentation department, led by dr. Hans van Eck. Two specialized teams are active within the project: a physical team responsible for hardware development and a digital team focused on software. The interim Project Manager works across both teams to drive integration and deliver a fully operational platform.Company profile
DIFFER (Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research) performs leading fundamental research on materials, processes, and systems for a global sustainable energy infrastructure. As an institute of the Dutch Research Council (NWO), DIFFER plays a key role in the energy transition. Working in close partnership with international academia and industry, the institute focuses on two key areas: solar fuels for the conversion and storage of renewable energy, and nuclear fusion as a clean energy source. DIFFER's user facilities are open to both university and industry researchers. |
Additional vacancy information
| Reference | : | A-2-2600074 |
| Contract | : | Projectmatig dienstverband |
| Education | : | PhD. |
| Arbeidsvoorwaarden | : | Salary: |
| Publication date | : | 29-10-2026 |
| Location | : | View location with Google Maps |
| Contactperson | : | Helen Jong |
| +31 (0)6 199 472 73 |
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