Visiting Researcher Programme (VRP) 2026 in Italy – NATO CMRE Fully Funded Research Opportunity

Are you a university researcher or graduate seeking hands-on experience in cutting-edge maritime science, defence innovation, artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, or ocean engineering? The Visiting Researcher Programme (VRP) 2026 at the NATO Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) in La Spezia, Italy, offers a prestigious opportunity to work within a world-class scientific environment under the umbrella of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Applications are currently being accepted and will be reviewed on a monthly basis for existing project requirements. The final application deadline is September 30, 2026, at 10:59 PM.

About the NATO CMRE Visiting Researcher Programme

The CMRE is a globally recognized scientific research and experimentation facility dedicated to advancing maritime security and defence innovation for NATO member states. Through the Visiting Researcher Programme, CMRE supports its Research Division (RD) and Engineering and Information Technology Division (EITD) by welcoming talented students and researchers from NATO nations to contribute to ongoing scientific and technological initiatives.

Selected researchers join dynamic interdisciplinary teams, gain access to advanced equipment and experimental facilities, and collaborate with leading scientists and engineers. The programme is structured to align individual research interests with NATO’s strategic priorities in maritime security and technological advancement.

Assignments last a minimum of 90 consecutive days and may be extended once for up to an additional 90 days. In some cases, shorter assignments under three months may be considered.

Research Areas and Core Competencies

The Visiting Researcher Programme covers a broad range of high-impact scientific fields, including:

• Underwater acoustics and seismic acoustics

• Underwater robotics and unmanned systems

• Ocean observation and prediction

• Sensors and signal processing

• Maritime security and operations research

• Artificial Intelligence and autonomy

• Cognitive science and collective intelligence

• Cybersecurity and cloud computing

• Modelling and simulation

• Quantum technology

• Climate change and security

• Data exploitation and information theory

• Computer science and networking

• Ocean and marine engineering

• Virtual reality and compact fuel cell power modules

Current research initiatives include autonomous mine countermeasures, cooperative anti-submarine warfare, environmental knowledge systems, and operational effectiveness for maritime security.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review CMRE’s ongoing technical projects and tailor their research proposals accordingly. Candidates may propose their own research topics, provided they align with CMRE’s project needs.

Salary, Benefits and Conditions

The programme offers a monthly salary of €3,079.45 (NATO Grade G2) for Research Fellows. Undergraduate applicants may apply as Research Interns with a monthly salary of €1,375.46.

Additional benefits include:

• Paid travel to and from La Spezia (for assignments longer than 30 days)

• Access to advanced research infrastructure

• Participation in NATO’s Science and Technology Organization (STO) STEM community

• Collaboration with international experts

Research Fellows are classified as Consultants under NATO regulations. Salaries are subject to taxation according to national legislation. Insurance coverage for health and accidents is mandatory and must be arranged by the researcher. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the candidate.

Researchers may be required to obtain a NATO Secret security clearance prior to arrival, depending on the assignment.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field

• Demonstrate English proficiency (SLP 3333)

• Be at least 21 years old

• Be a national of a NATO member state

Applications are strictly limited to nationals of NATO member countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Türkiye, Sweden, Finland, and other member states.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the NATO Talent Acquisition Program (NTAP) e-recruitment system. Applicants must include a CV, relevant diplomas, and key publications. This is an open candidate pool call, meaning applicants are not applying for a specific project but may be considered for assignments aligned with their profile.

The selection process includes CV screening and a remote interview with subject matter experts. Final appointment decisions are made by the CMRE Director.

Important: NATO does not permit the use of generative AI tools in any stage of the recruitment process. Applications prepared using AI tools may be rejected.

The application deadline is September 30, 2026, at 10:59 PM.

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