Steven Turnbull joined Edinburgh as a full-time professional during the summer of 2008 after graduating from the National Academy. He moved from Stirling County to Heriot's the same season. He made his debut for Edinburgh Rugby as a replacement in the 22-all draw with Connacht in the Magners League match in Galway in September 2006, and his first start followed two months later against Cardiff Blues at Murrayfield.

He formed an ever-present lock partnership with Richie Vernon in  Scotland's four under-19 internationals in season 2005-2006 before going on to play in four matches in the age group's world championship in Dubai. He added to his international honours by playing in the under-20 match against England at Bath in February 2007. Injury prevented his participation in other shadow six nations matches until the final game against France in March 2007. He had previously played for Caledonia under-16 and under-18 and Scotland under-18A and under-18, and he represented his country also at basketball in the under-16 and under-18 groups.

A former pupil of Dunblane High School and Strathallan, he has put his studies in sport and exercise science at Napier University on hold during his apprenticeship. He was named Scotland Under-19 Player of the Year at the Scottish Rugby Awards Dinner in May 2006.

International record: Scotland u18, u18A, u19, u20
Edinburgh appearances: 6