This selection procedure is intended to establish a reserve list of successful candidates. It is envisaged to start using the reserve list in Q3/Q4 of 2025.
Europol retains the right to make use of the reserve list to select candidates for similar posts within the organisation, should business needs require so.

DURATION OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

More than 6 months and up to 1 year 4 years
More than 1 year and up to 2 years 3 years
More than 2 years and up to 3 years 2 years

More than 3 years 1 year

• In addition to the above at least 6 years of total professional work experience gained after the award of the diploma.

PURPOSE OF THE POST

The role of Senior Specialist - Technology and Development (Vulnerability Research) is to expected to provide a wide range of technology and development services in the area of vulnerability research.
This includes making contributions to operational activities by means of, among others, scanning the environment for new technologies, identifying abuse of technology, analysing patterns, developing new toolsets and technical solutions for the purpose of supporting investigations and/or protecting digital infrastructure and telecommunication networks.
The Senior Specialist will in particular lead research and development efforts of new forensic data extraction methods from seized devices and criminal IT infrastructure in support of criminal investigations.
Detailed responsibilities include the research and development of new data collection and preservation methods, presentation of digital forensic information in cases related to cybercrime, serious and organised crime and terrorism, including support ‘on-the-spot’ in live cases in the field.

2. FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES

The incumbent carries out the following main functions and duties:

• Provide digital forensic services by researching and developing new data extraction methods from seized devices and IT infrastructure used by criminals; apply those methods in house at Europol HQ and on-the-spot during action days in EU MS and third countries;
• Perform reverse-engineering of hardware and software to improve law enforcement capabilities to access data and detect vulnerabilities;
• Prepare technical reports summarising findings and compile technical information or documentation;
• Serve as an expert witness in court, explaining complex access to data methodologies;
• Mentor, train, and provide guidance to team members; monitor work quality and implement improvements as needed;
• Stay updated on advancements in vulnerability research, digital forensics and related fields;
• Build and maintain relationships with relevant authorities in EU MS, EU bodies, third countries, and other organizations in the fields of vulnerability research and access-to-data;
• Lead or support projects, organise and chair meetings, training sessions, and conferences, and represent the organization at specialised European and international conferences.
• Perform any other duties in the area of competence as assigned by line management.