At a Glance
- Tasks: Use data and research to help improve Scotland's sporting system.
- Company: sportscotland, the national agency for sport in Scotland.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous holidays, discounts, and professional development support.
- Other info: Join a small team focused on continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sports in Scotland through research and evidence.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantitative and qualitative research with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
sportscotland is the national agency for sport in Scotland. Our vision is an active Scotland where everyone benefits from sport. Our goal is to be inclusive by design.
Are you passionate about helping people use data and research to make better decisions? Do you want to apply your research skills to help the people of Scotland get the most from the sporting system? This is an exciting role to support the sport sector use research and evidence to plan and improve. You will work with internal staff and partners across the sport sector.
You will have skills and experience in both quantitative and qualitative research. Research is only useful if people use it, so you’ll need strong communication skills. You will need to engage people to use findings to inform decision making.
You will be part of a small research team delivering sportscotland’s research strategy. This includes monitoring and evaluation, developing research tools and managing research projects. Our research will inform decisions and encourage continuous improvement.
This position may be offered to the successful candidate permanently at the end of the fixed term period, depending on operational needs at that time.
How to apply
Please apply online and attach your CV and covering letter detailing why you meet the requirements, by the closing date of 4th February 2026. We anticipate interviews will take place 16th / 17th February 2026.
Employee benefits
In return for the above, we offer employee benefits such as flexible working, generous holidays, Cycle2Work, fantastic discounts, a great pension scheme, support with your professional development and much more.
Disability Confident Employer
We are a Disability Confident employer. If you have any difficulties with your application because of a disability, please contact hr.recruitment@sportscotland.org.uk and we will discuss how we can help you.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At sportscotland inclusion underpins everything we do. If you’ve got the right skills for the job, we want to hear from you. We encourage applications from the right candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, caring responsibilities, care experience or social background.
Research Officer in Glasgow employer: sportscotland
sportscotland is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. With a strong focus on employee development, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits, including a great pension scheme and professional growth opportunities, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact in the sporting sector of Scotland. Join us in our mission to enhance the lives of individuals through sport while enjoying a collaborative culture that values diversity and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Officer in Glasgow
✨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 sportscotland, 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 sportscotland. 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 Officer in Glasgow
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 sportscotland. 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 sportscotland. 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 sportscotland
✨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 sportscotland. 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 sportscotland to drive research projects forward.
