Research Officer

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland are looking to hire two new members of staff to help create and deliver the final two regional research frameworks as part of the Scottish Archaeological Research Framework (ScARF) project.

These roles will help the Society deliver its programme activity to support its mission and vision. One role will assist in the delivery of the North East of Scotland Archaeological Research Framework. The second role will assist in the delivery of the Forth Valley Archaeological Research Framework project. Both roles will provide support and carry out additional research required, as well as helping with the co-ordination of events.

Reporting to the Research Manager, the roles will contribute to other research-related activities relating to the Scottish Archaeological Research Framework and will help deliver wider Society aims relating to external strategies as required.

Main Responsibilities

• Support the Research Manager in project delivery
• Maintain high academic standards across Society research-related activity
• Carry out a desk-based assessment and assist with literature review of research for the region, including Historic Environment Record (HER) assessment and data improvements, radiocarbon dates, museum collections, and Treasure Trove
• Update records and data within the HERs for the region based on gaps identified during the base data gathering process
• Create datasheets, interactive maps and graphics
• Assist with writing the Regional Research Framework
• Support the organisation of Project Advisory Group meetings, stakeholder engagement, workshops, and other project events
• Facilitate workshops, events, and communication
• Conduct at all times to maintain the high esteem in which the Society is held, and follow the Society employment policies and health and safety procedures

Role: Research Officer – full-time, fixed term for three years

Contract: 36 months (three years)

Salary: £29,200 per annum, with an additional 10% pension contribution

Hours: 37 hours (five days) per week with flexible daytime working hours on Monday–Friday, and an occasional requirement to assist at evening or weekend events with time off in lieu (TOIL) given for overtime provided.

Location: Hybrid working – all staff are expected to work from our office at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh at least two days per week (pro rata) and employees starting in a new role will be required to work from the office more regularly in the first instance. However, as there are several flights of stairs up to the Society offices, we are happy to explore different ways of working.

Reports to: Research Manager

Probation: There will be a probationary period during which time your skills and suitability for the post will be assessed.

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is an equal opportunities employer and believes that diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and encourage all interested individuals to apply. We are happy to explore different ways of working, secondments and alternative arrangements.

How to Apply

Submit a CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience, skills and knowledge meets the requirements (cover letter to be no more than two sides of A4) by the closing date

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in person in Edinburgh or online via Zoom on 19 and 20 March 2026. Reasonable travel expenses can be claimed.

Applicants who are not shortlisted will be informed but no detailed feedback will be possible.

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is dedicated to meeting the aims and commitments set out in its equality policy. This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010 and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce in encouraging equality and diversity. Please help us by filling in the Equalities Monitoring Form, a link will be emailed to you with receipt of your application.

xekaoyc Filling in this form is voluntary, and the results are anonymous and are not used in the recruitment process.

Closing date: 11:59 PM on 8 March 2026

Further Information

For further information, please read the 'ScARF Research Officer – Full Job Description' on our website or contact the Head of Research, Dr Helen Spencer FSAScot