At a Glance
- Tasks: Generate and pitch original ideas for The One Show's current affairs and arts films.
- Company: Join the BBC Studios team, known for its creativity and innovation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a fast-paced environment with opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Collaborate with talented professionals and build a network in the media industry.
- Why this job: Make your mark in journalism while working on exciting projects that matter.
- Qualifications: Strong writing skills and at least six months of research experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
EOI: 2 x Development Researchers, The One Show VT Team - BBC Studios, Salford
Contract: Fixed Term Contract/Attachment
Both Contracts:
- Start Date: Monday 16th March 2026
- Contract 1 End Date: Friday 12th March 2027
- Contract 2 End Date: Friday 28th September 2026
Application Closing Date: Midnight, Sunday 15th Feb
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to meet Series Editor Alan Clayton and Development Producer Gary Butcher.
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
BBC Studios’ Documentary Unit is seeking a Development Researcher to join the Development team creating current affairs, special project and arts films for The One Show. This is a full time role, based in Salford, with an on site requirement of two days per week.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM
The team is seeking a strong journalist with a proven ability to deliver original ideas under pressure. You’ll have an established contacts book, meet tight deadlines, and bring resilience, alongside a clear interest in current affairs, entertainment, arts and human-interest stories.
YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND IMPACT:
Using sound editorial judgement and journalistic expertise, The One Show Researcher must be a tenacious idea generator: pitching original, achievable ideas and treatments each week, and delivering popular journalism under tight deadlines and budgets. The role involves researching and simplifying complex stories, fact checking, casting contributors, and writing producer and presenter briefs.
YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
You’ll be rigorous in fact checking, experienced in writing treatments, and able to support filmmakers through handover into production. You’ll work confidently within BBC Editorial Policies, maintaining accuracy and stamina in a fast turnaround environment.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:
Candidates will have a strong understanding of The One Show audience, with the ability to handle complex topics with tact and sensitivity. You’ll bring strong writing skills, mature editorial judgement, and experience pitching current affairs and arts VT ideas, with at least six months’ experience at Researcher level. You’ll build trust with contributors, work collaboratively in a fast paced environment, and demonstrate strong organisation, adaptability and a proactive, can do attitude.
Please Note: Final offers are subject to greenlight.
EOI: 2 x Development Researchers, The On in London employer: BBC Group and Public Services
Joining BBC Studios as a Development Researcher offers an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic and creative environment in Salford, where your journalistic skills will be valued and nurtured. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company fosters a collaborative culture that encourages innovative thinking and resilience, ensuring you can thrive while contributing to impactful storytelling. The role not only provides a chance to engage with current affairs and arts but also allows for meaningful connections within the industry, making it an excellent employer for those passionate about journalism.
Contact Details:
BBC Group and Public Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EOI: 2 x Development Researchers, The On in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to BBC Studios or The One Show. A friendly chat can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching current affairs and recent episodes of The One Show. Show us you’re not just a fan but someone who can contribute fresh ideas and insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice pitching your ideas! We want to see your creativity and how you handle feedback. Think of it as a mini audition where you get to showcase your journalistic flair.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace EOI: 2 x Development Researchers, The On in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Current Affairs:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for current affairs and storytelling shine through. We want to see that you’re not just ticking boxes but genuinely excited about the role and the content we create at The One Show.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in research and pitching ideas. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so connect your past roles to what we do at BBC Studios. It’ll make your application stand out!
Be Clear and Concise:In your written application, clarity is key. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the point. Avoid fluff and focus on showcasing your skills and experiences that align with the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at BBC Group and Public Services
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, make sure you understand who The One Show's audience is. Familiarise yourself with their interests and the types of stories that resonate with them. This will help you pitch ideas that are not only original but also relevant.
✨Showcase Your Ideas
Prepare a few original ideas or treatments related to current affairs or arts that you can pitch during the interview. This demonstrates your creativity and ability to generate content under pressure, which is crucial for the role.
✨Brush Up on Your Research Skills
Be ready to discuss your research process and how you fact-check information. Highlight any past experiences where your rigorous research led to successful projects. This will show your potential employers that you have the journalistic expertise they’re looking for.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with filmmakers and contributors, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Emphasise your adaptability and proactive attitude, as these traits are essential in a fast-paced environment.
