A Fermanagh-born Catholic woman, and the head of Scotland Yard's anti-terrorist unit, are among the seven candidates in the running to take up the second most senior position in the RUC.
The post of deputy chief constable became vacant after the retirement of Mr Blair Wallace in May and is expected to be filled early next month.
The Police Authority for Northern Ireland, which is responsible for the selection procedure, yesterday took the unprecedented step of publishing the list of candidates shortlisted for the job. A spokeswoman said this was in line with the authority's drive towards greater openness and accountability.
Ms Maria Wallis (42), Assistant Chief Constable of Sussex Police, is the only woman among the seven candidates. The list also includes two serving RUC assistant chief constables, Mr Freddie Hall and Mr Raymond White.
The RUC has been strongly criticised for the low representation of both Catholics and women in the force.
An assistant chief constable at Greater Manchester Police, Mr David McCrone, is also in the shortlist. The other candidates are Mr Richard Trunstrom, an assistant chief constable at Cleveland Constabulary, Mr Colin Crampton, an assistant chief constable in West Mercia, and Commander John Grieve, head of the anti-terrorist branch at Scotland Yard.
The seven candidates will be interviewed by a panel of members of the Police Authority's Policy Co-ordinating Committee. Their choice of candidate must then be approved by the Northern Secretary, Dr Mo Mowlam.