Data Science and Innovation Accelerator - Mentor

Description

The Data Science and Innovation Accelerator supports public sector organisations in Scotland to explore early‑stage data and AI ideas. Our volunteer mentors play a central role in making this possible. As a mentor, you offer guidance, encouragement, and expertise over 12 weeks to someone developing a data innovation that matters to their organisation. Your support helps them grow in confidence, shape their idea, and bring it to life.

Why become a mentor?

Mentoring is a rewarding way to develop your own skills while helping someone else Volunteers tell us they benefit from:

• Stronger people and leadership skills
• Greater confidence in communication and coaching
• Improved critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities
• Opportunities to share technical knowledge and project-management experience
• A deeper insight of how Scotland’s public sector works

Who can apply?

We’re looking for people with strong technical skills in data. Our mentors typically work as:

• Data scientists
• Senior analysts or statisticians
• Economists
• Senior leads in data or information management

We also welcome applications from PhD students with relevant experience.

What is my commitment to my mentee and the programme?

Mentors commit around 2-3 hours from September to December. This time includes providing 1 hour of direct support per week and occasional support between meetings if required. You will also be invited to attend 2 in-person events in Edinburgh (September and December). 

What does a typical Accelerator project look like?

There’s no single ‘right’ kind of project – past ideas have been wide‑ranging. But strong projects tend to have:

• A clear user need or business challenge
• Access to safe, usable data
• Potential to produce a prototype process, tool or model in 12 weeks
• Supportive managers who protect participants’ time
• Leaders open to new approaches
• Motivated, curious participants
• Organisations willing to continue the work beyond the programme

What languages or tools can I use?

Projects often use R or Python. Participants are encouraged to use tools already available within their organisations. Version control (Git) and GitHub are recommended. An analytical workbench virtual machine is available.

How to apply

The first step is to register with the Scottish Digital Academy (see ‘Register’ button at the top of the page). You’ll then receive a link to the online mentor application form.

What public sector organisations have taken part?

Here are some of the organisations that have previously taken part:

Additional information

Key dates

• Project applications close: 30 April 2026
• Mentor applications close: 12 June 2026
• Mentor matched: July / August 2026
• Programme begins: 3 September 2026
• Programme ends: 3 December 2026