The Development Researcher will work at Wildbear Entertainment’s office in Brisbane, under the direction of Executive Producer Dr. Chadden Hunter on the development of a premium natural history television project. The successful applicant will ideally bring skills and industry experience from a similar role but be looking for an upward trajectory in their career. They should have a passion for the natural history genre, a collaborative approach to their work and excellent oral and written communication skills.    

The candidate can expect close mentorship and the opportunity to grow their skills in the genre of premium natural history film making. 

The candidate will ideally be:  

• self-motivated and able to work independently
• able to utilise creative research skills to scour diverse platforms including social media and scientific journals in order to unearth hard-to-find stories from the natural world
• a good communicator, comfortable making phone calls to experts and scientists
• a strong writer and have the ability to research complex ideas and efficiently download information into succinct written notes 
• an organised individual with the ability to manage competing deadlines on tight schedules
• familiar with or have a background in zoology or science, or alternatively strong journalistic skills or training. 

This paid placement suitable for practitioners with previous experience in the factual space.

To be eligible, applicants must: 

• be a bona fide Queensland resident, having resided in the state for at least the previous six months
• meet Screen Queensland general eligibility requirements as set out in the Terms of Trade.  

Screen Queensland encourages applications from diverse screen practitioners identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, culturally and linguistically diverse, female, non-binary, LGBTQIA+, person living with disability, regional or remotely based, under-represented age and socio-economic status.

To apply, submit an application using Screen Queensland’s SmartyGrants application portal. Late applications will not be assessed.

You need to include the following: 

• CV including: 
  • relevant experience (such as work on indie films and/or accreditations) 
  • links to previous work where applicable
  • a 300-word cover letter OR a 60-second video, introducing yourself, your experience in the documentary film space and your experience as either a researcher or producer.

When you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email. Please notify Screen Queensland if you haven’t received this within 30 minutes. Following submission, your application’s eligibility will be checked and if approved will proceed to assessment. 

Your application will be assessed by Screen Queensland and Dr Chadden Hunter against the following criteria: 

• your experience within the roles of either Researcher or Development Producer 
• your experience in the documentary film space as a whole 
• the strength of your CV or Video 
• your availability to attend and engage in the entire process 
• the potential impact this opportunity will have on your career trajectory.