The 22-year-old was handed a contract extension after helping Andy Robinson's men finish fourth in the Celtic League last season.

His form earned him a call-up for the two-Test tour of Argentina in June which Scotland drew 1-1 after losing the opening match.

Cairns made his Scotland debut against the Pumas last month and has now set his sights on securing a regular berth in Frank Hadden's Test midfield.

He will vie for a starting slot with the likes of Graeme Morrison and Andy Henderson and former Edinburgh man Rob Dewey while current club-mates Simon Webster and Nick de Luca also played there for Scotland in the 2008 RBS 6 Nations.

"My first objective is to play well for Edinburgh," he said. "Then I'll be looking to make an impact for Scotland for the autumn Tests and RBS 6 Nations.

"Last season was a great experience and the future is looking really good with so many young guys coming through.

"It is great to be able to play week in, week out with my mates.

"I'm looking to carry on the form I managed last season into the new campaign."