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Helene Vabø Wilsgaard

PhD Research Fellow
Subject areas
Professionalism, Learning and Leadership
Operational Policing
Emergency Preparedness and Interagency Collaboration

Background and experience

I am a PhD candidate with a background in psychology, sport and performance psychology, and operational psychology. My research focuses on how individuals, teams, and organizations function under pressure, with a particular interest in collaboration, leadership, and preparedness in high-risk environments. As a PhD candidate, I study hybrid threats in relation to policing and societal security, with an emphasis on collaboration and situational awareness. I also have operational experience from the fire and rescue services.

Teaching

  • NBKRISE  
  • Hybrid threats 
  • Psychology

Research

  • Preparedness and societal security 
  • Hybrid threats 
  • Policing and operational organizations 
  • Operational psychology 
  • Sport and performance psychology 
  • Psychological safety 
  • Teams and collaboration 
  • Leadership in high-risk professions 
  • Mental robustness and resilience 
  • Physical activity and health 
  • Motivation in high-risk professions

Publications

  • Wilsgaard, Helene Vabø; Bentzen, Marte; Skarin, Frida & Gustafsson, Henrik (2025). Thriving in high-risk emergency operators: Insights from those who serve. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology. ISSN 2157-3905. 14(4), p. 571–586. doi: 10.1037/spy0000395. Full text in Research Archive

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Published Oct. 12, 2026 2:40 PM - Last modified Oct. 12, 2026 2:40 PM