Programme researcher, broadcasting/film/video : Employers and vacancy sources

The majority of researchers work for television, independent production companies, radio, or satellite and cable companies, on news and current affairs programmes.

The UK's largest broadcaster is the BBC . The majority of its programmes are produced in-house but it has a statutory obligation to ensure that 25% of its commissioned programme hours are made by independent producers.

ITV produces about half its programmes outside London and comprises 15 regional licensees and the GMTV national breakfast station. The major players are Carlton and Granada. Channel 4  broadcasts throughout the UK, except parts of Wales. It does not make programmes but commissions them from independent production companies. S4/C , the Welsh fourth channel, offers programmes in both Welsh and English. BBC Alba  in Scotland broadcasts some Gaelic programmes and is also responsible for the Gaelic Digital Service channel. Channel 5  broadcasts across the UK by aerial, cable, satellite or digital equipment, and makes a small number of programmes.

Independent production companies include HIT Entertainment, The Television Corporation, Tiger Aspect, Endemol UK and TWI (UK), plus over 1,400 smaller independent companies, based mainly in London, which mostly recruit freelancers.

Commercial radio companies include Chrysalis Group (Galaxy and Heart 106.2), Capital Radio, GWR (Classic FM), SMG (Virgin Radio and Wireless Group), and EMAP Group (stations in London and Kerrang! in the West Midlands).

There are numerous satellite, cable and digital broadcasters, including Sky and NTL, and researchers are also employed by a small number of production companies in the film industry.

To make speculative applications consult employer listings in directories such as the Guardian Media 08 publication, KFTV  and the PACT Directory of Independent Producers .

Sources of vacancies

• Search graduate jobs on this site.
• BBC Jobs - all BBC paid and unpaid vacancies are advertised centrally online.
• BBC Work Experience  - allow at least three months for your application to be processed.
• Media Week
• Production Base
• Mandy's International Film and TV Production Resources
• grapevinejobs
• Broadcast
• Broadcast Freelancer
• Start in TV

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