BBC Sounds is looking for the next generation of audio creators for its second annual Audio Lab.
returns for a second year with a new programme to find the most exciting next generation of audio creators and help them turn their ideas into podcasts to be showcased on BBC Sounds.
The Audio Lab’s first year supported a series of original podcasts by emerging audio creators, with some going on to win broadcasts on BBC Radio 1Xtra and 4 Extra, be championed in the Radio Academy’s 30 Under 30 and be critically acclaimed alongside some of 2022’s biggest hits including Pod Bible’s best podcasts of the year.
Audio Lab is a “unique accelerator initiative,” and this year, each successful creator will receive a full-time salary for eight months from May-December, 2023, at Assistant Producer level, plus a comprehensive package of practical and professional training that includes dedicated production support and a bespoke training plan.
Also new for this year, Audio Lab will embed the creators with one of its production partners from across the UK. Each partner will lead development and production, and join Audio Lab to help choose the best ideas. They include BBC Long Form Audio in Salford, and for the first time a UK independent production company.
Next week, BBC suppliers based in Salford, Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, Birmingham and London will be invited to express their interest to work with BBC Sounds Audio Lab. Further details will be announced next week via BBC Radio Commissioning and the Audio Lab website.
Khaliq Meer, commissioning executive for BBC Sounds Audio Lab, says: “We set out to create an immersive space where emerging talent can hone their skills and ideas. I’m incredibly proud of the podcasts our first year creators produced, some of which were broadcast alongside world class programmes on BBC radio.
“More people are listening to podcasts than ever before and we’re passionate about helping the next generation access the right support and resources, achieve next-level ambition and reach new audiences on BBC Sounds.”
Audio Lab is aimed at those with some experience of making fresh audio, telling great stories or producing narrative content. Applicants will have a range of content making experience they want to develop including writing, interviewing, recording, editing and presenting. They may have self-published audio or video on well-known social media channels, have produced or presented at smaller radio stations or previously held junior production roles.
Audio Lab is open to all and encourages applications from all UK under-represented groups including Black, Asian & Minority Ethnic; LGBTQIA+, disabled and lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Applications open on Tuesday 17th January via the Audio Lab website and BBC Careers Hub, and close on Sunday 12 February 2023. Find out more via the Audio Lab website.
