The aim of this project is to build on research needs mapping work carried out to date for SNAP3 and support the development of a strategic research and evidence plan for adaptation. This important work will support the implementation of the SNAP3 monitoring and evaluation framework. It will play a key role in developing the evidence base for the next national adaptation plan (SNAP4) and the planned 2027 review of the current M&E framework. Ultimately, this will support better evidence planning and both production and use of research, so that the policies in place to meet our current and future adaptation outcomes are increasingly evidence based.
Specifically, the project will synthesise and map Scottish (and wider UK and international where relevant) evidence linked to areas of research interest already identified in stakeholder workshops over 2024 across the 5 outcomes in SNAP3. It will identify where there are areas of significant research activity and an established evidence base across these and identify priorities for further research and evidence gathering. The intern will also have the opportunity to work with the social research team in climate analysis to use this mapping in the development of a strategic evidence and research plan for SNAP3. This will involve supporting the prioritisation of the research gaps identified, developing structured research questions to fill these prioritised gaps and identifying opportunities to answer these questions.
The outputs of this project will be a concise written report and accompanying summary. Outputs will also feed into the development of the strategic evidence and research plan for adaptation. There will be the opportunity to present findings to Scottish Government policy colleagues and analysts.