Media & Creative Jobs

Researcher

A television Researcher is responsible for providing support to the Producer and Production team. Researchers contribute ideas for programmes, source contacts and contributors and collect, verify and prepare information for the production. A researcher can work on a wide variety of programmes or within one subject area.

What does the job entail?

The work involves organising, planning and researching everything that will happen during the programme. The researcher has a responsibility for fact checking, writing briefs for presenters and ensuring that appropriate legislation relating to the production is followed.

Typical work activities are varied but may include:

• Meeting with producers, Directors, Presenters and Writers to discuss the research needs of a programme
• Generating and developing new programme ideas
• Researching information using the internet, film and tape archives, picture libraries, museums and government departments
• Booking resources, facilities and freelance staff
• Providing administrative support such as typing, answering the phone and dealing with contracts
• Sourcing copyright and gaining clearance for any materials used
• Finding interviewees to conduct initial interviews with and getting vox pop responses to current events from members of the public

Typical Career Routes

Career progression is achieved by working on a variety of productions. Researchers in television may go on to work on high-profile current events programmes or specialise in a particular area such as music research or stills research. On a larger production there may be opportunities for experienced researchers to supervise a team. Being a researcher is a great way to get a good view of what other roles exist within the industry.

To progress in this industry you need to be pro-active, willing to learn new skills and prepared to work hard to show a firm commitment to your job. Maintaining good relationships within the sector is also very important.

Key Skills

• The ability to generate new ideas, be resourceful and motivated
• Excellent written communication and interpersonal and organisational skills
• The capability to work well in a team and under pressure
• Excellent IT and research skills;
• Confidence, patience and flexibility

Training and Qualifications

Although candidates do not need a particular degree to become a Researcher, subjects such as Broadcasting & Media, Journalism or English may improve your chances.

Graduates tend to be preferred but relevant work experience, personal qualities, confidence and evidence of skills may compensate. Specialist knowledge and research experience may be required for specific subject areas or documentaries.