Have you ever wanted to contribute to the future of cybersecurity beyond your day-to-day work? ISC2’s Research Volunteer Opportunities offer a meaningful way to do just that—by lending your expertise to projects that inform, influence and inspire the global security community.
Research is one of the activities that ISC2 conducts regularly to understand the issues and concerns facing cybersecurity professionals, as well serving as a valuable resource to ensure that the views of members and the industry at large are understood and considered by organizations, policymakers and other stakeholders.
Be Part of ISC2 Research
Marinda Hamann, lead, global research at ISC2, has outlined some of the research that ISC2 undertakes to support members and the profession, along with showing how members can get involved in supporting and developing these valuable research activities.
What is the role of a Focus Groups & Surveys Participant volunteer, as well as the time commitment required?
Volunteering to participate in ISC2 research (Focus Groups & Surveys) is an ad hoc volunteer opportunity, meaning they are not scheduled on a recurring or consistent basis. ISC2 will send an email invitation to a survey or upcoming focus group initiative, volunteers can then decide if they are interested in participating. The time to complete a survey may range from five minutes to thirty minutes (we will provide an estimate of the time required in the email). Typically, focus groups are scheduled for 90 minutes. Depending on the situation and time commitment, ISC2 may offer an incentive for participation (details would be shared in the email invitation).
How many surveys or focus group opportunities are available in a year?
The number of surveys and focus group opportunities varies. Some years, ISC2 hosts several focus group sessions and surveys, and some years only a few – it really depends on what is happening in the world of cybersecurity (e.g., how much the latest emerging technology is impacting cybersecurity and the people working to protect critical assets) or what ISC2 may want to know more about. It also depends on whether ISC2 is seeking feedback on topics that may impact all cybersecurity professionals or feedback on a more focused topic (e.g., we want to talk to CSSLP holders, or we want to hear from cybersecurity professionals working in healthcare, or we want to talk to those in leadership roles, etc.).
Are there specific criteria needed to volunteer?
Overall, there are no requirements to participate in an ISC2 survey or focus group – just your willingness to share your opinions and the time it takes to complete a survey or participate in a focus group session.
What are the benefits and importance of this volunteer role?
Participating in ISC2 research is a great way to share your opinions, experiences and expertise on topics that impact you and the broader cybersecurity profession.
Why would this make a good volunteer opportunity?
Research is a good volunteer opportunity because it is not scheduled on a regular basis - you can choose to participate if you are interested in the topic and available and if you have the time to do it.
A full list of volunteering opportunities can be found on the ISC2 volunteering section of the web site.
