RIVM

At RIVM, we are committed daily to public health and a safe, sustainable living environment. We conduct research, gather knowledge, and provide advice on topics such as infectious diseases, vaccinations, environmental quality, and a healthy lifestyle. Our work directly impacts society through vaccination programs, population screenings, and recommendations for quality healthcare and safe products. With over 3,200 colleagues, we operate from our headquarters in Bilthoven—relocating to our new building at Utrecht Science Park in mid-2025—to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Spatial and Environmental Safety

In the Netherlands, space for living and working is scarce. People want to live safely and healthily, while businesses seek room for economic growth. The ongoing challenge of balancing these needs is at the core of environmental safety.

Environmental safety focuses on the risks associated with the use, production, storage, and transport of hazardous substances, as well as wind turbines. This includes hydrogen-rich energy carriers essential for the energy transition. Environmental safety policies set the framework for designing areas to ensure sufficient protection for residents and workers in case of accidents involving hazardous substances. These policies consider both calculated risks, which can involve significant uncertainties, and perceived risks.

Career Opportunities

Safe Energy Transition Traineeship

Have you (nearly) completed your master’s or PhD? Are you interested in the energy transition or safety and want to contribute to protecting our environment? Over the next two years, you can work and learn at various governmental organizations, including the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Rijkswaterstaat, the Netherlands Institute for Public Safety (NIPV), DCMR Environmental Protection Agency Rijnmond, and the Province of South Holland. Recruitment for the 2025-2027 trainee program starts in May. More information can be found here: Safe Energy Transition Trainee Program. (dutch)