Trainee Researcher (EastEnders) (EXTEND)

• CONTRACT TYPE: 2 x 6 Month Fixed Term Contract / Attachment 
• DEPARTMENT: EastEnders
• LOCATION: Elstree
• PROPOSED SALARY RANGE: £24,479 (plus London Weighting). Salary is dependent on relevant skills, knowledge and experience. The expected salary range for this role reflects internal benchmarking and external market insights.

A globally renowned media company borne of the BBC. We make and distribute the world’s most sought-after TV, audio and digital content.

Our ambition is to be the home of the most powerful, entertaining, and inspiring stories for people all around the world.

The Trainee Researcher will be given the exciting opportunity to work alongside the Script and Story Researchers who provide support to the editorial and writing team, to identify and carry out research activities on any subject matter through the story and script process.  As someone who watches EastEnders, you’ll know our storylines can be dramatic and hard-hitting. This means exploring a broad range of social issues including police procedures, medical processes, relationship breakdowns, and various other complex, often sensitive and potentially traumatic storylines, which may be impacting the characters of Albert Square.   

Join one of the UK’s most iconic and influential dramas and play a part in bringing powerful, authentic stories to life. Working alongside the research team, you’ll gain hands-on experience in scripted television, develop valuable research and editorial skills, and contribute to storylines of Albert Square that reflect real social issues while engaging millions of viewers across the country.

The role of the Trainee Researcher reports to the Research Script and Story Teams and will be guided by the Senior Researcher before actioning decisions. 

• Support the Story, Script and Research teams by reviewing storylines and character developments for authenticity, consistency and credibility
• Conduct detailed research, identify potential issues, and provide balanced findings and practical recommendations to writers and editors
• Ensure factual accuracy and continuity across scripts, highlighting inconsistencies and helping to resolve research-related queries
• Build relationships with subject matter experts, organise research meetings, and produce clear reports and story documentation
• Collaborate across production teams, contribute research insights in meetings, stay informed on current social issues, and provide administrative support as required.

• Demonstrable ability of handling research materials, whether than be in a TV, journalistic or academic environment, etc.
• Demonstrable passion for TV drama - especially EastEnders!
• Experience of strong written communication skills, creativity, and the ability to work effectively under pressure and as part of a team
• Professional and organised approach, including handling sensitive information, maintaining administrative systems, and using Microsoft Office applications
• Demonstrable experience of prioritisation, problem-solving and forward-planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and identify potential issues proactively.