At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and share your writing while inspiring students in Gaelic literature.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a leader in Celtic studies.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible work options, and generous leave.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive environment that champions diversity and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Gaelic culture and connect with a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Fluency in Gaelic and a published writer in poetry, prose, or drama.
The predicted salary is between 34610 - 39906 £ per year.
UE06: £34,610.00 – £39,906.00 Per Annum, Pro Rata. College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences / School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures/ Celtic and Scottish Studies. Part Time – 14 Hours Per Week. Fixed Term Contract - 2 years Tenable from 1 September 2026.
Applications are invited for a part-time (0.4) post of Gaelic Writer in Residence based in the department of Celtic and Scottish Studies. The post is located within the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures. Celtic and Scottish Studies is an exceptionally strong subject area with a commitment to developing links in creative writing between its students and professional writers.
The University wishes to appoint a highly capable, energetic person who will fulfil and develop the University-wide role of Writer in Residence. We are looking for a person who can develop and fulfil the role of Gaelic Writer in residence. You will be a published writer of poetry, prose fiction or drama with demonstrable ability to engage with a varied cohort of students of Gaelic and the wider Gaelic community.
The appointment is for a fixed term of 2 years, starting in September 2026 and is not renewable. The post is restricted to a two-year period in order that students and the University benefit from the varied development activities, experiences and exposure to professional writers that the rolling 2-year writer-in-residence programme provides.
The Opportunity: Celtic and Scottish Studies is a leading centre for the study of Celtic languages. Many graduates of the University have made major contributions to Gaelic literature. Over the course of your tenure you will produce at least one major piece of creative writing, work with teaching staff to create materials supporting the delivery of Gaelic language teaching, organise workshops, readings and other public events, and manage and judge the department’s Gaelic writing prize for students.
We will make available the sound recordings, visual material, manuscript holdings and other resources of the School of Scottish Studies Archives, the University’s library, which includes the Carmichael‑Watson and Professor Donald MacKinnon collections, as well as our holdings of Gaelic books, journals, pamphlets and other written material. The writer would also be encouraged to draw on the excellent Gaelic collections of the National Library of Scotland.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Fluency in Gaelic
- Published writer of poetry, prose fiction or drama
- Established and recognised reputation for excellence among peers
- Demonstrable organisational and communication skills
- Knowledge of, and contacts in, local and national literary networks
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, a defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family‑friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion. The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBTQ equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. On this occasion the University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this role. International workers will therefore only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Gaelic Writer in Residence employer: The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh offers an inspiring and supportive environment for the Gaelic Writer in Residence, fostering creativity and professional development within a vibrant academic community. With access to extensive resources, including the School of Scottish Studies Archives and a commitment to equality and diversity, this role provides a unique opportunity to engage with students and contribute to the rich tapestry of Gaelic literature. Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the field of Celtic and Scottish Studies.
Contact Details:
The University of Edinburgh Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Gaelic Writer in Residence
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow writers, professors, and anyone in the Gaelic community. Attend events, workshops, and readings to make connections that could lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work! Create an online portfolio or blog where you can share your writing and experiences. This not only highlights your skills but also makes it easier for potential employers to see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the university and its Celtic and Scottish Studies programme. Be ready to discuss how your background and ideas align with their goals, especially in engaging students and the wider Gaelic community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Gaelic Writer in Residence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Make sure to include samples of your published work, whether it's poetry, prose, or drama. We want to see your unique voice and style, so pick pieces that really showcase your talent!
Engage with the Gaelic Community:Highlight any experience you have working with students or the wider Gaelic community. We’re looking for someone who can connect and inspire, so share your past projects or workshops that demonstrate this.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Make it specific to the Gaelic Writer in Residence role. Mention how your skills align with our goals and how you can contribute to the Celtic and Scottish Studies department.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Gaelic
Make sure you brush up on your Gaelic language skills before the interview. Being fluent is a must for this role, so practice speaking and writing in Gaelic to showcase your proficiency.
✨Showcase Your Work
Bring along samples of your published poetry, prose, or drama. This is your chance to impress them with your established reputation, so be ready to discuss your creative process and how your work engages with the Gaelic community.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your knowledge of local and national literary networks. Be prepared to talk about how you plan to connect with students and the wider Gaelic community through workshops and events.
✨Organisational Skills Matter
Highlight your organisational abilities during the interview. Discuss any previous experience managing events or projects, as this role involves organising workshops and judging writing prizes.
