Journalism Researcher Political Research

Job Title

Journalism Researcher – Political Research

Job Details

Job Requisition ID: 34552 | Job Closing Date: 7th December 2025 | Location: London, SW1P 3HJ | Department: BBC News | Contract Type: Fixed Term, Full‑time | Band: B | Salary Range: £24,800 – £30,000 (depending on skills, knowledge and experience) | JRN25

Purpose of the Role

We are looking for a highly‑motivated journalist to join our political research unit for three months, starting in January 2026. We are also seeking freelance broadcast journalists to join our political programmes talent pool. Successful candidates will work across high‑profile BBC political programmes such as Politics Live, Westminster Hour, Political Thinking and Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, and may also be offered work on BBC Parliament and other political output.

Why Join the Team

We value a wide range of life experiences to help cover what is happening in Westminster and how politics affects people’s lives across the UK. We are interested in freelancers with broadcast journalism experience, recent experience in politics, or a keen desire to pursue a career in TV and radio.

Key Responsibilities and Impact

• Write interview briefs and brief presenters
• Book guests
• Plan content for future programmes
• Produce VT clips and short packages
• Commission graphics
• Research and write on‑screen captions for BBC Parliament and work on live coverage for the channel

Essential Criteria

• Good knowledge and understanding of UK politics and its parliaments and assemblies
• Ability to summarise complex policy and political arguments, ensuring a wide range of viewpoints are considered
• Strong communication skills and a track record of successful collaborative working
• Ability to cope with conflicting demands in pressurised situations
• Evidence of creative thinking and idea generation

Additional Preferences

Experience in journalism or politics is valuable but not essential.

Benefits

• Fair pay and flexible benefits including a competitive salary package
• Flexible 35‑hour working week and 25 days annual leave (option to buy an extra 5 days)
• Defined pension scheme, discounted dental, health care and gym
• Excellent career and professional development opportunities
• Supportive, values‑based organisation where the way we do things matters as much as what we do
• Flexible working arrangements that can be discussed at the application, selection or offer stage
• Benefits may vary if joining on a fixed‑term contract or other conditions contract

EEO Statement

We welcome applications from individuals regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio‑economic background, religion and/or belief. We are a disability‑confident employer and will discuss adjustments or access requirements for the interview process if needed.

Application Process

To apply, please indicate your flexible working preference at the time of application. No obligation to do so now – this will be part of discussion at the offer stage.

Disclaimer

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, its principal accountabilities, and the skills, knowledge and experience required for satisfactory performance. It is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.

Important Information

Any offer made by BBC will be conditional upon satisfactory employment screening checks, including reference checks, eligibility to work checks, and if applicable, safeguarding and adverse media/social media checks.

Contact

For general queries, contact: bbchr@bbc.co.uk