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The Cybersecurity Talent Imperative: Unlocking the Neurodivergent Advantage

CyberNeu · Research White Paper · August 2026

A strategic analysis of the cybersecurity workforce shortage and the opportunity to strengthen the talent pipeline through neurodivergent inclusion. The paper explores workforce trends, hiring challenges, business outcomes, and recommendations for employers and industry leaders.

Cover of the CyberNeu research paper The Cybersecurity Talent Imperative: Unlocking the Neurodivergent Advantage.
Published by CyberNeu

Presented at Black Hat USA 2026 — CISO & Executive Track

Executive summary

CyberNeu examines the global cybersecurity hiring and retention crisis and argues that a substantial, capable talent pool is being screened out by conventional recruiting practice rather than by capability.

The paper documents the scale of the workforce gap, the cost organizations carry when security teams are understaffed, and the persistent underemployment of neurodivergent adults whose cognitive profiles map closely to security work.

It closes with practical recommendations for employers and industry leaders: redesigning hiring processes, structuring onboarding, and building environments where these professionals can do their best work.

Organization
CyberNeu
Publication type
Research White Paper
Published
August 2026

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