Easson, 23, has recently begun coaching S2 pupils at George Heriot's School, and hopes to follow in the footsteps of his father Bob, a former Edinburgh coach, by becoming a PE teacher. He has already attained UKCC Level 1 and Level 2 coaching qualifications.
With the support of Paul Kesterton, Scottish Rugby's education manager, Easson has also taken up a course in Sport and Exercise Science at Edinburgh Napier University and intends to go full-time with his studies next year.
The midfield man, who played for Scotland 7s, represented his country at age-grade level and has been a professional since 2007, confirmed: "It's obviously disappointing the way things have gone injury-wise in the last few years, but I'm determined to stay positive and make the most of the other opportunities that I have.
"I had a number of discussions with the coaches at Edinburgh and we reluctantly came to the joint conclusion that it was time to take a step back from the pro-game. I'm still really enthusiastic about rugby, and I'm hugely enjoying passing on a few tips to the children at Heriot's.
"This hasn't been an easy decision to make, and I'll always look back fondly on my time at Edinburgh. I'd like to thank all the players and coaches I've worked with, as well as the physio and medical team who have given me a lot of support over the years."
Rob Moffat, the Edinburgh head coach, today praised Easson's attitude and professionalism, saying: "Andrew's had to go through a lot in the last couple of seasons, but he never let his head go down and that says everything about him.
"I'll be sad to see him go, both in terms of his rugby ability and the way he conducts himself, but I'm glad that he's got plans and wish him every success in the future. He'll always be welcome in the dressing room, and I look forward to him keeping in touch."
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