From student to scientist: “I research where microplastics come from and how we can reduce them.”

Diving deep into nanotechnology.

I learned a lot about the nanoscale world, which enables many modern technologies. For example, during several courses, I worked in the cleanroom at the Mesa+ NanoLab and learned how lithography works, a patterning process used to create microscopic structures on silicon wafers. This is how microchips are made: by building up complex patterns, layer by layer, on a silicon wafer. I had the opportunity to carry out parts of this process myself, of course, under supervision. Besides, I learned so much about electron microscopy, which is now a big part of my work. These microscopes use a beam of electrons to image a sample's surface, so I can see and analyse structures invisible to a conventional light microscope.

As a student assistant, I gave tours of the Mesa+ NanoLab to secondary school students and professionals interested in the capabilities of the lab. Every tour was different, and I enjoyed showing people around the facilities and answering their questions.

I am researching microplastics. How are they formed? Where do they come from? Where do they end up? And what effects do they have? I also look at ways to reduce their formation and emissions in the environment. For example, I am currently involved in a project investigating how microplastics are generated during plastic recycling, and I am conducting measurements at a plastic recycling plant.

I also spend a lot of time in the laboratory, where my main expertise is in scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electron microscope allows me to study microplastics in great detail. My work also involves analysing the data I gather through my research and summarising the findings in reports.

When I started looking for a job, I wanted to focus on nano- and microparticles, and it was important to me that the work had an environmental impact. Now, in my current role, I get to do both. It is also motivating to work in a team and discuss results with my colleagues. Whenever someone has a question about microplastics, I can dive into research, which is the most exciting part for me.

Definitely my experience with electron microscopes. I learned how they work and what I could use them for, and this has been invaluable. Besides, I took materials science courses, which taught me how materials, such as crystals, behave at the nanoscale: for example, where and how their properties can change. That knowledge is useful when analysing microplastics and understanding how they break down over time.

I have learned a lot about how a large organisation such as TNO operates. That includes meetings, collaboration, and communication with people inside and outside TNO. I have also expanded my knowledge of microplastics.

Continuing to grow is what matters to me: that could be as a scientist or perhaps as a project lead or a manager. At the moment, my focus is on microplastics, which I really like. I am also exploring another area in the same department, and that is circular electronics, focusing on sustainable recycling of electronics through electrochemistry.  

After graduation, you may not be sure what kind of job you want because nanotechnology is such a broad field. That is why it helps to start by finding out what is important to you and using those interests as keywords when searching for opportunities. In my case, those keywords were nanoparticles and environmental impact. Also, let go of the idea that your first job has to be your dream job: just start somewhere and use that experience to figure out in which direction you want to develop yourself.