Research & Innovation Specialist

About the Role

The Research & Innovation Specialist contributes to CBRN Academy’s ongoing effort to advance the science and practice of CBRN preparedness through evidence-based research, methodology development, and applied innovation. This role sits at the intersection of academic rigour and operational utility — supporting the development of next-generation training models, simulation systems, digital preparedness tools, and collaborative research with institutional partners. You will work alongside training, consulting, and technology teams to ensure that the Academy’s programmes remain at the leading edge of the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, develop, and document advanced readiness methodologies that address current and emerging CBRN threats.
• Contribute to the design and evaluation of simulation systems and scenario-based training frameworks.
• Support the development of digital tools, e-learning platforms, and immersive training technologies aligned with operational requirements.
• Establish and maintain academic collaborations with universities, research institutions, and international bodies.
• Conduct systematic literature reviews, threat landscape analyses, and capability gap studies to inform programme and product development.
• Contribute to peer-reviewed publications, conference submissions, and institutional white papers representing the Academy’s research output.
• Assist in grant applications, innovation funding bids, and research partnership proposals.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Advanced academic background in a relevant field — including but not limited to public health, life sciences, chemistry, physics, emergency management, defence studies, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated research experience, including study design, data analysis, and scientific or technical writing.
• Familiarity with CBRN threat environments, preparedness frameworks, or related operational domains.
• Experience with simulation design, instructional technology, or digital learning tools is a significant advantage.
• Strong written English skills, with the ability to produce publication-quality technical content.
• Experience with academic or applied research collaboration across institutions or national borders is valued.

What We’re Looking For

You are intellectually rigorous and operationally aware — someone who understands that research in this field must be both scientifically credible and practically applicable. You are comfortable working across disciplinary boundaries, engaging with practitioners as much as with academics, and translating complex findings into formats that drive real-world capability improvement.

Working at CBRN Academy

This is a role for those who want to contribute meaningfully to the future of CBRN preparedness — not just document what exists, but help define what comes next. CBRN Academy provides a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment with access to international networks and operational expertise. This is a full-time position based in the Netherlands.