Senior Research Specialist JusticeEdinburgh   £38084 - £45855

The Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) provides research, information and documentation services to MSPs, their staff and the staff of the Parliament, to assist in their parliamentary duties. You will ensure that the Parliament's committees and MSPs are impartially briefed on justice issues, in particular those in the areas of civil and administrative justice but also in other devolved policy areas. Your work will include responding to requests for research from individual MSPs, their staff and Parliament staff, and working closely with parliamentary committees.
Your educational achievements and proven professional track record will contribute clear evidence of excellence in relation to the skills and knowledge required for this role. You must have substantial relevant work experience (a minimum of around 3 years) and will typically have a degree (or equivalent qualification) at 2:1 level in a relevant subject area. You will possess strong knowledge of research methods and be able to work flexibly and use your initiative, often under pressure and to tight deadlines. You will be an effective communicator with well developed interpersonal and teamworking skills.
You must have extensive knowledge/experience of the Scottish civil and administrative justice systems, with knowledge of other devolved policy areas being advantageous.
Salary range is £38,084, progressing to £45,855 within 4 years, subject to performance. We also offer an excellent range of benefits, a great working environment and a choice of pensions.
The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and treatment and to eliminating unfair discrimination in its employment practices. We are committed to building a diverse and representative workforce and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people and members of the black and minority ethnic communities.

Closing Date:     05-Sep-2008