Writer in Residence

The University of Edinburgh; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

An established university seeks a passionate Writer in Residence to inspire and engage students in creative writing. This part-time role offers a unique opportunity to connect with a vibrant community of aspiring writers while developing valuable literary programs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in poetry or prose fiction, along with the ability to foster connections within the literary community. This is a chance to make a meaningful impact in a supportive and diverse educational environment, contributing to the growth of students' creative talents and experiences.

Benefits

Generous holiday entitlement

Competitive pension schemes

Staff discounts

Family-friendly initiatives

Qualifications

• Published writer with a strong portfolio in poetry or prose fiction.
• Demonstrated organisational skills and literary connections.

Responsibilities

• Engage with students in creative writing activities.
• Develop and deliver workshops and literary events.

Skills

Expertise as a writer of poetry or prose fiction

Knowledge of local and national literary networks

Experience as a writer

Collaborative skills with literary professionals

Experience using digital platforms for workshops

Organising readings and events

Reputation for excellence among peers

Job description

Job Description

College/School/Department: College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures, English & Scottish Literature.

Contract: Fixed Term, Part Time (0.4 FTE).

Contract Duration: 01/09/2025 – 31/08/2027.

Salary Grade: UE06

Salary: £34,132 - £39,355 pro rata per annum.

Number of Posts: 1

The Opportunity

Applications are invited for a part-time (0.4 FTE) post of Writer in Residence based in the department of English & Scottish Literature. Located within the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, English & Scottish Literature 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 fulfill and develop the University-wide role of Writer in Residence.

The appointee will be a published writer of poetry or prose fiction with demonstrable ability to engage with a varied cohort of talented and demanding students. They will also have demonstrable organisational skills, as well as established connections in the professional literary world in Edinburgh, central Scotland or beyond.

The appointment is fixed term for 24 months, starting in September 2025 and is not renewable. The post is restricted to a two-year period to ensure 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.

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and particularly from members of minority ethnic groups, who are currently under-represented in the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures.

We are open to considering flexible working patterns and hybrid working requests (on a non-contractual basis) that combine remote and on-campus work.

Informal inquiries may be directed to [e-mail].

Your Skills And Attributes For Success

• Expertise as a writer of poetry or prose fiction
• Knowledge of, and contacts in, local and national literary networks
• A substantial body of experience as a writer
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with other literary professionals
• Experience of using digital platforms for online workshops and events
• Experience of organising readings and similar events
• Established and recognised reputation for excellence among peers nationally and internationally

Click here for a copy of the full job description. If you already hold a contract of employment with the University of Edinburgh, you should apply via the Internal Applications Portal here.

How To Apply

Applications should be submitted through People & Money, including a CV and covering letter. Additional documents such as certifications or writing samples are welcome but not mandatory. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

References are not required at the application stage and will only be requested if shortlisted. Applications via email are not accepted.

Benefits and Equality

As a valued team member, you can expect a competitive salary, a diverse and vibrant community, and comprehensive staff benefits including holiday entitlement, pension schemes, staff discounts, and family-friendly initiatives. Details are available on our staff benefits page.

The University holds a Silver Athena SWAN award, is a member of the Race Equality Charter, and a Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champion, actively promoting LGBT equality.

Prior to employment, you must evidence your right to work in the UK. The University will not consider applicants requiring sponsorship; international workers must demonstrate an alternative right to work.

Key Dates

The application deadline is 23rd May 2025, with a closing time of 23:59 GMT. Time zone adjustments apply for applicants outside the UK.

About Us

The University of Edinburgh is a research-intensive institution committed to addressing global challenges through teaching, research, and innovation, with a values-led approach.

About The Team

The School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures is one of the largest at the University, offering a wide range of languages and disciplines, with a rich history and vibrant community based in George Square.