At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and share your Gaelic writing while engaging with students and the community.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh's vibrant Celtic and Scottish Studies department.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible work options, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in Gaelic literature and inspire the next generation of writers.
- 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 would 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.
We welcome applications for this post from all qualified candidates and particularly welcome applications from members of minority ethnic groups, who are currently under-represented in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures.
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 LGBT 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.
Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 8 June 2026. Unless stated otherwise, the closing time for applications is 11:59 pm (UK time). If you are applying from outside the UK, the closing time shown on our adverts will automatically adjust to your browser’s local time zone.
Gaelic Writer in Residence in Edinburgh employer: 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 literary resources and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees can thrive while contributing to the rich tapestry of Celtic and Scottish Studies. Enjoy competitive benefits, flexible work options, and the opportunity to engage with students and the wider Gaelic community in meaningful ways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Gaelic Writer in Residence in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with fellow writers, educators, and anyone in the Gaelic community. Attend events, workshops, and readings to make those valuable 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 bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out to universities, literary organisations, and community groups to express your interest in roles like the Gaelic Writer in Residence. You never know what might come up!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community and contributing to the Gaelic literary scene.
We think you need these skills to ace Gaelic Writer in Residence in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Make sure to include samples of your published work in your application. We want to see your unique voice and style, so pick pieces that really showcase your talent as a Gaelic writer.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We’re looking for someone who understands the role of a Writer in Residence. Highlight your experience with creative writing and how you can engage with students and the Gaelic community.
Be Organised:Since this role involves managing workshops and events, it’s important to demonstrate your organisational skills. Share examples of past projects or events you’ve successfully coordinated to show us you can handle the responsibilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Gaelic
As a Gaelic Writer in Residence, fluency in Gaelic is crucial. Brush up on your language skills and be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency during the interview. Consider discussing your experiences with Gaelic literature and how it has influenced your writing.
✨Showcase Your Work
Bring along samples of your published poetry, prose, or drama. Be ready to discuss your creative process and how your work engages with students and the wider Gaelic community. This will help the interviewers see your established reputation and your ability to connect with others.
✨Engage with the Community
Highlight any previous experience you have in organising workshops or public events. Discuss how you plan to foster connections between students and the local literary networks. This shows that you’re not just a writer but also a community builder.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the role, the department, and the opportunities for collaboration. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
