Historical Researcher & Podcast Producer

Middle East Broadcasting Networks; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Part time

Job summary

Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN) is seeking a rigorous Researcher/Producer (contract) to support two historical/cultural podcast series. The role demands university-level archival research, meticulous fact-checking, and ability to translate findings into compelling scripts.

The ideal candidate will identify expert interview subjects, organize source notes, and coordinate interviews while producing draft scripts and supporting multimedia content, all under tight deadlines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in journalism or related field or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years in journalism, research, or related fields.
• Knowledge of extremism, radicalization, hate movements, disinformation.
• Strong writing, editing, and fact-checking skills.
• Experience with open-source intelligence and digital investigations preferred.
• Ability to assess credibility and identify misinformation.
• Fluency in Arabic and English.

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 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.

Skills

Arabic fluency

English fluency

Research skills

Fact-checking

Open-source intelligence

Interview coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

OSINT tools

Job description

Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN) is seeking a rigorous Researcher/Producer (contract) to support two historical/cultural podcast series. The role demands university-level archival research, meticulous fact-checking, and ability to translate findings into compelling scripts.

The ideal candidate will identify expert interview subjects, organize source notes, and coordinate interviews while producing draft scripts and supporting multimedia content, all under tight deadlines.