Media Researcher

The Job and What's Involved

Media researchers are part of a team contributing to TV, radio or online shows. They carry out much of the essential groundwork for what is eventually broadcast.

Researchers investigate the subject to be covered by a programme, and assist with the recording. They may also help to come up with ideas for topics and new shows.

Media researchers are found in a variety of disciplines, including:

- News and current affairs
- Consumer shows
- Quizzes and talk shows
- 'Reality' TV programmes
- Dramas and film - to ensure factual accuracy and realism

Tasks may include:

• Researching a topic, using a variety of sources, including the internet and archive recordings.
• Contacting experts on particular topics to talk through the issues.
• Providing accurate briefings, in writing and in person, to programme producers, directors, journalists or presenters.
• Drafting scripts.
• Booking interviewees, and finding replacement guests at short notice.
• Finding appropriate locations for filming.
• Getting permissions for filming and use of material.
• Researching and writing material for the programme's website.
• Carrying out general administrative tasks.

Increasingly, media researchers are also expected to take on extra tasks as part of the production crew. In TV, they may do some filming.

Working hours depend on the employer and the programme. Long and unpredictable hours are common. Researchers are expected to work flexibly to meet programme deadlines.

Many researchers work on a freelance basis. Short-term contracts are common. Some may last only a couple of months, or for the duration of a programme or series.

The work is based in offices or studios, but often involves frequent travel to other settings as well. Researchers may work on location, sometimes outdoors. A driving licence is essential.

Researchers may have to stay away from home for lengthy periods, possibly abroad. Researchers on investigative programmes may work undercover, sometimes in difficult situations.

Starting salaries may be around £19,000 a year.

Getting Started with this Career Choice

Media researchers are employed by:

- Independent TV and radio production companies
- The BBC, both on a national and local level
- The ITV network
- Channel 4, five and S4C (Wales)
- Commercial radio companies
- Some cable, satellite and digital broadcasters
- A small number of film production companies

Jobs are mostly found in the major cities, including London, Manchester, Bristol and Glasgow.

Jobs with terrestrial TV companies have been in decline recently. The cable and satellite sector is smaller, but opportunities are growing. Research is commonly seen as a first step for those with ambitions to reach roles such as producer. This means competition is fierce.

Vacancies are advertised in the specialist press, such as Media Week, and on the websites of employers, such as the BBC. Networking is also important as some posts are filled through personal contacts.

Education and Training

There are no set entry requirements for researcher jobs. Many entrants hold a degree or HND. However, experience, enthusiasm and evidence of relevant skills usually count for as much as academic qualifications.

Degrees or HND's may be in any subject. A directly-relevant subject, such as broadcasting or journalism, may provide an advantage, but is not essential.

For a degree, entry requirements are usually at least two A levels/three H grades and five GCSE's/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent. For an HND, entrants usually need at least one A level/two H grades and four GCSE's/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent.

Work experience is normally essential. Opportunities are often available with student TV and radio, local newspapers and community radio. This is also a good way of building up a list of useful specialist and general contacts for the future.

Some TV researchers enter the industry in a more junior role, such as a runner. Others gain experience as journalists in print or broadcast media.

A Few More Exams You Might Need

Researchers train on the job, developing their skills as they gain in experience. Employers may fund short courses in specific skills.

The BBC and some independent companies run training schemes for new entrants. The following companies run new entrants' schemes supported by Skillset, the sector skills council for the audio-visual industries:

- FT2
- Cyfle
- Production Guild
- Scottish Screen
- Screen Yorkshire

Skillset has set up a network of screen academies, based in Bournemouth, Edinburgh, London and Wales. Each academy offers a range of courses, summer schools, work placements, master classes and online learning resources, as well as a talent scout programme.

TRC (The Research Centre), based in Glasgow and Manchester, offers training programmes for employed TV researchers.