Mrs Naomi Betts BSc, MSc

Naomi Betts is a senior analyst at Dstl. She currently coordinates research on topics including: teamwork training, complex cognitive skills training, and the use of data and evaluation in training, but also has expertise in teamwork training, skill fade and flexible learning. In addition to these areas, Naomi is a key contributor to international research community, with a particular focus on modelling human behaviours, and effects on human behaviours, in constructive simulations. Work with NATO colleagues resulted in the development of the Agent Based Reference Model (ABRM) (NATO MSG-198 report “Composable Human Behaviour Representation in Constructive Simulation Systems”, 2023). The ABRM enables multi-nation and interdisciplinary collaboration and discussion about the representation of human behaviour in simulation modelling by providing a common language and understanding; this enables approaches to modelling, and specific models, to be compared and contrasted to generate a greater understanding of the topic.

Outside of her work within Defence, Naomi has a background in psychology and undertook a PhD with King’s College London. Her PhD examined the efficacy of emergency preparedness exercises in preparing health care professionals to respond to major incidents (such as the Manchester Arena Attack, 2017). Through close collaboration with Public Health England’s (now UKHSA) Emergency Response Department, Naomi’s work has had national impact through informing the design and delivery of emergency preparedness exercises.