Research Trainee - Politics Desk in Dartford

Research Trainee - Politics Desk in Dartford

Dartford Full-Time No working from home possible
The Institute of Art and Ideas

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a dynamic team to create engaging debates and events on philosophy and politics.
  • Company: Institute of Art and Ideas, known for innovative thinking and impactful events.
  • Benefits: Hybrid working, private healthcare, pension scheme, and discounts on events.
  • Other info: Supportive environment with career progression and diverse team culture.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in public conversations on groundbreaking ideas.
  • Qualifications: Passion for philosophy and politics with strong academic results.

This is a remarkable opportunity to play a key part in the growth of a rapidly expanding and unique organisation, the Institute of Art and Ideas (IAI). Described by the Guardian as 'the return to big thinking' and by Total Politics as 'Europe's answer to TED', the IAI puts on events throughout the year, including HowTheLightGetsIn - now the world's largest philosophy festival.

We are looking for a talented and motivated Research Trainee to join our rapidly expanding team. The successful candidate must have a passion for philosophy and politics. They will have the ability to identify and examine the deeper philosophical ideas and broader implications of cutting edge contemporary politics, economics, and culture along with the journalistic flair required to develop engaging copy and innovative events.

Working alongside our current research team, you will be responsible for devising and creating debates in the IAI’s programme, using your knowledge of current political, philosophical, and economic theories to identify key trends and exciting debate topics. Bringing together leading speakers and theorists in their field, you will have the opportunity to engage in and change the public conversation on ground breaking ideas.

Alongside programming, you will have the opportunity to produce events, host speakers, write briefs and influence the promotion and publicity of our output. You will need to show the capacity to generate genuinely innovative ideas and the tenacity to make them happen.

We are looking for candidates with expertise in a variety of philosophical issues. Applicants for this position will need to demonstrate a keen interest in philosophy and politics with exceptional academic results (min. 2.1 from a top university), and in addition to a razor sharp mind, will have the personal communication and persuasion skills to excite the UK’s leading thinkers. You will be capable of making accurate editorial judgements and will have the originality to think on your own and in new directions.

At TVF Media, we are focused on supporting your career progression and wellbeing. In joining our team, you will also become eligible for our range of benefits, including our pension scheme, private healthcare insurance cashback scheme, hybrid working, Cycle to Work, frequent company socials and biannual parties, gym and HowTheLightGetsIn festival ticket discounts, and more!

We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace, and actively support and encourage people from a variety of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets to join us and help shape what we do.

If you think you have what it takes to succeed in this role, please apply now!

Research Trainee - Politics Desk in Dartford employer: The Institute of Art and Ideas

The Institute of Art and Ideas (IAI) is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant work culture centred around intellectual curiosity and innovation. As a Research Trainee, you will not only engage with leading thinkers but also enjoy a range of benefits including hybrid working, private healthcare, and opportunities for career progression, all while contributing to meaningful public discourse at events like the world-renowned HowTheLightGetsIn festival.

The Institute of Art and Ideas

Contact Details:

The Institute of Art and Ideas Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Trainee - Politics Desk in Dartford

Get Involved in Local Journalism

Join local journalism groups or community events to meet industry folks and make connections. Try volunteering for community newspapers or online platforms – it's a great way to get your foot in the door and show your commitment to the craft.

Showcase Your Work Online

Create a personal website or a blog to showcase your best articles, videos, or multimedia projects. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your passion for journalism and helps establish your personal brand in the media landscape.

Stay Updated on the Industry Trends

Follow industry leaders on social media and stay updated on the latest trends in journalism. Engage with them by sharing your thoughts or asking questions – you never know when an informative tweet might catch the eye of a recruiter or journalist at The Institute of Art and Ideas!

Explore Internships for Full-Time Opportunities

Don’t shy away from internships, even if you’re looking for full-time roles. Many journalism companies, like The Institute of Art and Ideas, often hire from their intern pool, so using these as stepping stones can really pay off. Keep an eye on their career page for any openings!

We think you need these skills to ace Research Trainee - Politics Desk in Dartford

Research Skills
Philosophical Knowledge
Political Analysis
Event Production
Copywriting
Debate Development
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Writing Skills:In journalism and media, your ability to write well is essential, so make sure your CV and cover letter reflect that. Include diverse writing samples, whether they’re articles, blog posts, or reports, that showcase your style and versatility. We want to see your voice and ability to engage an audience from the get-go!

Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've interned at a media outlet or contributed to any publications—whether student-run or professional—don't keep it a secret! We love seeing real-world experience, so clearly detail your responsibilities and achievements. Quantify your impact where possible, like mentioning audience growth or story reach.

Tailor Your Application for The Institute of Art and Ideas:When applying for the Research Trainee - Politics Desk role at The Institute of Art and Ideas, really dig into what makes their content stand out. Reference their tone, style, or any recent articles that resonated with you in your cover letter. This shows we you’re not just sending out generic applications—you’re genuinely interested in what we do!

Prepare for a Portfolio Spotlight:Since you're applying for a full-time role, you're likely expected to have a portfolio ready to go. Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with what The Institute of Art and Ideas produces. Provide a link to your online portfolio in your CV and be prepared to discuss your favourite pieces in interviews—this is your chance to shine!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute of Art and Ideas

Show Off Your Writing Skills

Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best writing samples. This is crucial in journalism as hiring managers want to see your voice and style. Make sure to include a variety of pieces, like news articles, features, and opinion pieces, showing your versatility.

Master the Art of Storytelling

During the interview, be ready to discuss how you approach storytelling. You might be asked to outline a story you reported on, your process for gathering information, and how you engage your audience. Practice telling a couple of your best stories concisely and compellingly.

Know the Current Media Landscape

Be prepared to discuss industry trends and how they affect journalism today. Familiarise yourself with key developments in media, and have opinions ready for discussions about digital versus traditional platforms, as well as ethical considerations in reporting.

Convey Your Passion and Drive

As you’re applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to know about your long-term commitment to journalism. Share your aspirations for future projects, any internships or freelance work, and how you see yourself growing within The Institute of Art and Ideas. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but a career in journalism.