At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on devolution and parliamentary 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: Experienced researcher with strong communication skills and knowledge of constitutional topics.
The predicted salary is between 56875 - 68301 € per year.
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 – the latter 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.
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.
Temporary Senior Researcher in Edinburgh employer: The Scottish Parliament
Join the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) as a Temporary 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 not just a job; it's an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary Senior Researcher in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the Scottish Parliament. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Senior Researcher role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current issues related to devolution and constitutional matters. Show us you’re not just knowledgeable but passionate about making a difference in the Parliament!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at SPICe and contributing to the important work we do.
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary Senior Researcher in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Senior Researcher. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Research Skills:Since this role is all about research, don’t forget to include examples of your previous work. Share specific projects where you’ve produced comprehensive briefings or analyses, and how they made an impact.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! We want to see your ability to communicate complex ideas simply and effectively. Keep your sentences short and to the point, just like you would in a briefing.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Scottish Parliament
✨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 these areas, as well as the specific work of the Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe). This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also genuinely engaged with the topics you'll be researching.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about how you would approach real-life scenarios related to the job. For instance, be ready to discuss how you would prepare a committee briefing or respond to an MSP's enquiry. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process and demonstrate your problem-solving skills during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an excellent communicator, you’ll need to convey complex information clearly and concisely. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated research findings or briefings in the past. This could include writing samples or instances where your communication influenced decision-making.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Show enthusiasm for the role and the work of the Scottish Parliament. Ask insightful questions about their current projects or challenges they face. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you stand out as someone who is eager to contribute positively to the team.
