Job Description

Social Researchers provide high quality research-based evidence and advice for Ministers and officials to inform policy development, implementation and evaluation.Social researchers help generate new ideas and open up debate, challenge assumptions,beliefs and attitudes, test policy ideas and develop a deeper understanding of issues affecting Scotland.

The Senior Research Officer leads the development of a programme of research and analysis to support the work of the Scottish Procurement and Property Directorate. Key priorities include: developing a programme of work to inform, gather, analyse and present evidence that explores the use of public procurement in Scotland as a vehicle for achieving wider policy objectives.

Key deliverables of the role include

• Development of the Annual Report on Procurement Activity in Scotland
• Contract management for the analysis of annual procurement reports and strategies
  from Scottish contracting authorities.
• The Senior Research Officer also provides research support and analysis to policy teams across other divisions and directorates to provide evidence and analysis relating to (for example) local government finance, local taxation and business rates.
• This post is co-located within the Local Government and Analytical Services (LGAS) Division in the Directorate for Local Government, and the Procurement and PPM Policy and Strategy Division in SPPD.

• Provide research-based advice and expertise to policy teams and Ministers to inform government policy making and delivery both orally and in writing.
• Build relationships with the policy/practice community and external research community to bring expert knowledge into decision making.
• Commission and manage external research projects.
• Undertake internal research using a variety of methods such as literature reviews, interviews and focus groups. Advise non research colleagues on social research methods and research ethics.
• Contribute to briefings and PQs, FMQs promptly and accurately.
• Make a significant contribution to the aims and objectives of the Social Research Group and the corporate commitment to evidence-informed policy making.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact kenny.rankin@gov.scot

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.