Researcher/Producer

About the role

MBN is seeking a rigorous and resourceful Producer/Researcher to support two new historical/cultural podcast series. The ideal candidate has substantial experience conducting university-level historical research, including work with archives, primary sources, and scholarly materials. This person must be meticulous about fact-finding and factchecking, able to turn research into a strong first draft of a script, and skilled at identifying relevant experts, arranging interviews, and managing follow-up. Excellent writing, organization, judgment, and attention to detail are essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth historical research using archives, primary sources, scholarly publications, and other reliable materials.
• Verify facts, quotations, dates, names, historical claims, assess source credibility, and ensure factual accuracy in all published materials.
• Identify compelling stories, characters, and details that can strengthen each episode.
• Produce accurate, well-sourced multimedia content, including articles, videos, explainers, backgrounders, research briefs, and investigative reports.
• Organize research clearly and maintain accurate source notes and citations.
• Prepare research summaries, timelines, background memos, and briefing materials.
• Produce rough first drafts of scripts based on the research.
• Identify scholars, experts, witnesses, and other relevant interview subjects.
• Arrange and coordinate interviews, including scheduling and follow-up.
• Prepare interview questions and background materials.
• Assist with production planning and keep projects moving on schedule.
• Contribute to MBN newsletters, website, social content, and other platform initiatives as needed.
• Ensure all reporting and research adhere to journalistic ethics, legal standards, and organizational safety protocols.
• Perform additional job-related duties and take on new responsibilities as needed based on organizational requirements and circumstances.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, Communications, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• 3+ years of experience in journalism, research, investigative reporting, digital media, intelligence analysis, or related fields.
• Demonstrated knowledge of extremism, radicalization, hate movements, disinformation, online communities, and related issues.
• Strong research, writing, editing, and fact-checking skills with the ability to synthesize complex information clearly and accurately.
• Experience conducting open-source intelligence and digital investigations using public records, social media platforms, databases, and online research tools is preferred.
• Ability to assess source credibility, verify information, and identify misinformation or manipulated content.
• Strong understanding of journalistic ethics, legal considerations, and responsible reporting practices related to sensitive topics.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines