At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the delivery of research awards and manage funding schemes for innovation in Scotland.
- Company: Join the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Scotland’s National Academy, dedicated to impactful research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a positive, inclusive culture.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in research funding while collaborating with top researchers and institutions.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in research, funding, or higher education required.
The predicted salary is between 38087 - 38087 £ per year.
Full-time (35 hours/week) Fixed-term contract, 12 months, with the possibility of extension. Hybrid working (minimum two days per week in central Edinburgh office). Starting salary: £38,087 per annum. Closing date: Sunday 21 June 2026, 23:59.
About the RSE
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is Scotland’s National Academy. Through the expertise of our Fellowship and the work of our staff, we bring together knowledge, ideas, and people to help address the most important issues facing Scotland and the wider world. Our Fellowship of over 1,800 individuals spans academia, business, public service, the arts, and civil society. Alongside this, the RSE delivers a wide-ranging programme of research support, policy advice, public engagement, and international collaboration. We are a collaborative, purpose-driven organisation with a strong commitment to supporting our people and promoting a positive and inclusive working culture.
About the role
We are seeking a Research Awards Officer to support the delivery of the RSE's research awards programme, ensuring the effective administration of funding schemes, stakeholder engagement, and award processes. The role will support the delivery of a diverse portfolio of funding schemes that invest in research talent, collaboration, and innovation across Scotland. Working closely with the Research Awards Manager and Senior Research Awards Officer, you will coordinate award programmes from application through to assessment, award management, and reporting, ensuring a high-quality experience for applicants, assessors, and award holders. You will also contribute to the delivery of the RSE’s annual medals programme, supporting the coordination of nominations, assessment processes and stakeholder engagement. The role includes assisting with preparations for the ceremony, helping to ensure a positive and professional experience for medal recipients and guests. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of Scotland’s leading research funding portfolios while working with researchers, universities, funders, Fellows and other partners across the research and innovation landscape.
About you
- A degree or equivalent professional experience in a research, higher education, funding, charitable, or related environment.
- Experience of administering grant calls, funding programmes, awards schemes, or application-based processes.
- Experience of using CRM, grant management, or equivalent database systems.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- The ability to work independently, use initiative and contribute effectively as part of a collaborative team.
This role would suit someone with experience in research funding, higher education, learned societies, charities or similar organisations who is looking to develop their career in research programme management and administration while contributing to the advancement of research and innovation in Scotland.
How to apply
To apply, please complete the online application via BreatheHR. At the document upload stage, please ensure you provide both required documents: A CV (maximum two A4 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience and a cover letter (maximum one A4 page) setting out your suitability for the role and your interest in working at the RSE. Applications must be submitted by 23:59 on Sunday 21 June. Interviews for this role will take place on Tuesday 30 June at the RSE in Edinburgh. Please note that the RSE is not in the position to sponsor work or student visas. Pre-employment screening will include the necessary right to work in the UK checks as well as reference checks.
Research Awards Officer employer: Royal Society of Edinburgh
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its staff. With a strong commitment to research and innovation, employees benefit from engaging with a diverse network of professionals while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements in the heart of Edinburgh. The RSE not only invests in its people but also provides meaningful opportunities to contribute to Scotland's research landscape, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
Contact Details:
Royal Society of Edinburgh Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Awards Officer
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Royal Society of Edinburgh, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Royal Society of Edinburgh. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Awards Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Royal Society of Edinburgh. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Royal Society of Edinburgh. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Society of Edinburgh
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Royal Society of Edinburgh. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Royal Society of Edinburgh to drive research projects forward.
