About Social Research
Social Researchers support the development, implementation and evaluation of the Scottish Government's policies. Their core function includes:
- The interpretation of evidence and the provision of research based advice
- Engaging with the academic and wider research community to bring expert knowledge into the policy making process
- Commissioning external research projects
- Undertaking research such as reviews of the existing evidence base
- Disseminating research findings and encouraging their wider use
They work closely with other analysts in the Government including statisticians and economists.
The Chief Researcher, Diana Wilkinson, is head of profession for all social researchers in the Scottish Government, and also leads the Office of Chief Researcher which provides a strategic, corporate and professional support function. In addition, there are 16 other social research teams across the Government who provide social research support to the 5 core Ministerial portfolios - Economy, Education, Environment, Health and Justice & Communities.