How can the ISO 59000 series support the circular economy transition in the semiconductor industry, with a focus on NXP’s organizational practices?
The semiconductor industry faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices due to environmental concerns and resource scarcity. Transitioning to a circular economy is now a strategic imperative. Semiconductor production relies on rare materials like silicon, gallium, and rare earth elements, whose extraction is energy-intensive and environmentally harmful. Circular strategies—such as material recovery, reuse, and recycling—can reduce ecological impact and supply risks.
Rapid device obsolescence contributes to rising e-waste, often containing valuable components discarded too early. Designing chips for disassembly, repairability, and recyclability can extend lifecycles and improve resource efficiency. Semiconductor fabs are also highly energy-intensive; circular approaches like closed-loop water systems, renewable energy use, and process optimization can lower emissions and costs.
Regulatory frameworks (e.g., EU Green Deal, RoHS, WEEE) and consumer expectations are driving demand for sustainable products and transparent supply chains. Circularity also fosters innovation in design and business models, offering competitive advantages and new revenue streams.
NXP is at the start of its circular economy journey. To ensure meaningful progress within the internship timeframe, the project will focus on the most impactful circularity elements—from raw material sourcing to product delivery. This targeted approach allows for in-depth analysis and a comprehensive assessment of strategic opportunities.
The goal is to identify and define the strategic building blocks needed to establish a strong foundation for circularity at NXP, enabling long-term transformation across its supply chain.
Conduct a gap analysis comparing current practices (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and other relevant standards) with the ISO 59000 series. Leverage past experience to guide circular operations and support circular economy integration.
Explore how the ISO 59000 family can be tailored to semiconductor operations, drawing insights from the adoption of ISO 9001/14001 and other industry-specific standards.
Assess current trends in the semiconductor industry and evaluate NXP’s position relative to major competitors.
Deliver a comprehensive report supplemented with an operations management summary, strategic recommendations, and a presentation.
Hybrid. The student can discuss the on-site and online plan with the company. Students will work part-time while taking elective courses. However, the student can choose to do a “Company-based Project” in one block, instead of a block of the elective course, to work on writing a thesis full-time. Preferably three days in person (High Tech Campus 60, 5656AG Eindhoven) with the possibility of working from home two days per week.
January/February to June 2026
#LI-0d06