She hoped to teach soldiers good food choices and how to keep themselves hydrated on long-distance marches. Mrs Scrivin will also have the opportunity to carry out research.
Moving the family to Abu Dhabi will be a challenge. Her three boys, aged 3, 5 and 7, will start at an international school in September and her husband will also be looking for a teaching position.
The family would stay in Abu Dhabi for up to five years, she said.
"The temperature can get up into the 50s, the average for the year is around 35 degrees, so that will take a bit of getting used to. But everything is airconditioned. We're going because of the culture, we want to enjoy the experience and give it our all."