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

At RIVM, you work towards a healthy and safe living environment and a sustainable future for the Netherlands. We play a key role in addressing major societal challenges, from detecting new viruses to developing national vaccination programs and cancer screening initiatives.

We research, advise, and stand ready 24/7 to protect people from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats and the consequences of accidents involving hazardous substances. RIVM supports regional emergency services and national authorities in crisis prevention, preparation, and response—both during and after incidents. We also play an important role in preparing for and managing nuclear accidents and other radiation-related events.

Beyond safety, we monitor harmful substances in the environment, assess the safety of medicines, and analyze the effects of lifestyle choices such as diet and physical activity. Our work revolves around research, knowledge sharing, and providing advice for a healthy population and a safe living environment.

To achieve this, we bring together professionals from a wide range of disciplines—scientists, legal experts, privacy specialists, communications advisors, IT professionals, management support staff, and project managers.

Learn more at rivm.nl/werken-bij-rivm or werkenvoornederland.nl. (dutch)