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- Tasks: Support the sport sector by using research to improve decision-making and planning.
- Company: Join sportscotland, the national agency for sport in Scotland, promoting an active lifestyle.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, discounts, and a great pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's sporting system through data-driven insights.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantitative and qualitative research with strong communication skills.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 38773 - 43300 £ per year.
Salary: £38,773 per annum
Fixed-term for two years
Full time (35 hours per week)
Happy to talk flexible working
Based in Glasgow
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?
Responsibilities
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.
Qualifications
You will have skills and experience in both quantitative and qualitative research.
Strong communication skills, ability to engage people to use findings to inform decision making.
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 us 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.
sportscotland – sport for life
Research Officer in Scotland employer: sportscotland
Contact Detail:
sportscotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Officer in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the sport sector, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Research Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your quantitative and qualitative research projects. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and make a lasting impression during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll need to engage people with your findings, consider doing mock presentations or discussions with friends. This will help you articulate your ideas clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of the sportscotland team and contributing to an active Scotland.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Officer in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Officer role. Highlight your quantitative and qualitative research skills, and don’t forget to showcase your communication abilities. We want to see how you can help people use data to make better decisions!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about sport and research. Be specific about how your experience aligns with our goals at sportscotland. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can engage others with their findings.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on projects where you've successfully used research to inform decision-making. We love seeing examples of how you've engaged stakeholders or improved processes through your work. Make it relatable!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at sportscotland. Get your application in before the deadline on 4th February 2026!
How to prepare for a job interview at sportscotland
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Be ready to discuss your previous projects and how they’ve impacted decision-making in the sport sector. This will show that you not only understand the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Engage with the Sportscotland Vision
Familiarise yourself with sportscotland’s mission of creating an active Scotland. Think about how your skills can contribute to this vision and be prepared to share your ideas on how research can enhance the sporting system in Scotland during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key for this role, practice explaining complex research findings in simple terms. You might even want to prepare a brief example of how you’ve successfully engaged stakeholders in the past to use research findings in their decision-making.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about their current research strategies or challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values, especially regarding inclusion and diversity.
