At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on devolution and constitutional issues for the Scottish Parliament.
- Company: Join the Scottish Parliament Information Centre, a key player in Scotland's governance.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41.5 days leave, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Inclusive culture welcoming diverse candidates and offering excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in one of Scotland's most influential workplaces.
- Qualifications: Experience in research with strong communication skills required.
Temporary Senior Researcher, Parliament & Constitution, Scottish Parliament Information Centre
Salary range: £56,875 to £68,301
Location: Hybrid working from the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh and from home
Contract: Temporary until June 2027 (maternity leave cover)
Leave: 41.5 days (including public holidays)
Working Pattern: This is a full-time temporary post, working 35 hours per week. This is a hybrid role, working from Holyrood, and from home.
Pension: Civil Service pension arrangements with an employer contribution of 28.97% of basic annual salary
Clearance Required: CTC security clearance will be processed at job offer stage
Closing Date: 11:59 pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026
If you want to make a difference in one of the most influential workplaces in Scotland, this is your opportunity. This is a great opportunity to join the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) as a Senior Researcher. SPICe comprises a research and information service and supports the scrutiny and legislative functions of the Parliament. We provide impartial, accurate and timely research, information and briefings to Members of the Scottish Parliament, their staff, and Parliamentary staff.
Working within the Environment, Rural, Constitution and International Research Unit, you'll be responsible for supporting the work of the Parliament on devolution, constitutional and parliamentary issues including the powers of the parliament; the legislative process, scrutiny processes and the procedures of the Parliament. As well as answering enquiries from MSPs, their staff and staff of the Parliament, you'll prepare committee briefings and analysis to help MSPs scrutinise draft legislation, and the work and policies of the Scottish Government. You'll publish briefings and blog articles on relevant issues and be expected to deliver oral briefings as required. You'll also work across the Parliament to support corporate and strategic work linked to your areas of expertise.
You will cover a wide range of subjects, including: devolution and constitution; electoral law and Parliament. You may be expected to cover other relevant topics as required. We're looking for an experienced researcher with detailed knowledge of devolution, constitution and parliament topic areas. You'll be an excellent communicator who is able to produce comprehensive briefings with brevity, accuracy and impartiality, and have a commitment to producing high quality research and analysis.
You’ll demonstrate a high level of personal credibility with excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships. If you're looking for a new challenge and the opportunity to contribute to the Parliament's vision, we'd love to hear from you. Applications for a secondment are welcome. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a Minority Ethnic background and Disabled candidates. All appointments will be made on merit. We have a values-based culture of respect and inclusion embedded in our organisation, and everyone has the ability to make a difference.
We offer a great range of benefits including: 41.5 leave days (including public holidays), flexible working, paid professional subscriptions, family-friendly policies, Season Ticket advance loans, an onsite gym facility, Health and Wellbeing Schemes including discounted gym membership, a confidential counselling and information service, and the Cycle to Work Scheme. You'll also have the opportunity to join the Alpha Civil Service pension scheme, where we'll offer you an employer contribution of up to 28.97% of your basic salary.
Senior Researcher in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
Join the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) as a Senior Researcher and be part of a dynamic team that plays a crucial role in shaping Scotland's legislative landscape. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and respect, we offer an exceptional work culture, generous leave entitlements, and a comprehensive benefits package including a substantial pension contribution and flexible working arrangements. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful research while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Edinburgh and the support of a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Researcher in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Scottish Parliament. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of devolution and constitutional issues. We want to see you shine with your expertise and confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role requires excellent briefings and presentations, we suggest doing mock interviews with friends or family to nail your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows us you’re serious about joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Researcher in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the Senior Researcher role. We want to see how your background fits into the specific areas of devolution, constitution, and parliamentary issues.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires excellent communication, be sure to demonstrate your ability to produce clear and concise briefings. Use examples from your past work to show how you can convey complex information effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any previous research roles or projects that relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We’re looking for someone with a solid understanding of the legislative process and scrutiny functions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of devolution, constitutional issues, and the legislative process. Familiarise yourself with recent developments in Scottish Parliament and be ready to discuss how they impact your role as a Senior Researcher.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an excellent communicator, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to produce clear and concise briefings. Prepare examples of your previous work where you've successfully communicated complex information, whether through written reports or oral presentations.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a positive connection with your interviewers. Show that you can develop and maintain relationships by being personable and engaging. This is crucial for working collaboratively within the Parliament.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and how you handle real-world scenarios. Think about past experiences where you've had to analyse information quickly or respond to urgent requests from MSPs, and be ready to share those stories.
