Story Research and Development (UNPAID)

Job Description

Mid-day Studios is looking for a Story Research & Development Intern (Fiction & Non-Fiction) Duration: 8-12 Weeks (UNPAID) We are seeking a passionate and detail-oriented Story Research & Development Intern to support the creation of compelling fiction and non-fiction narratives. Key Responsibilities: FICTION STORY DEVELOPMENT 1. Story Research & Inspiration Mapping Curate inspirational material from newspaper clippings, web articles, and anecdotal sources (e.g., local crimes, cultural taboos, youth trends). Prepare chronological event sheets summarizing case developments. Liaise with stakeholders for research and character insights. Maintain detailed research documents for each idea, including: Title suggestions Thematic zone Socio-political backdrop Conflict arc 2. Character Matrix Preparation Create character bibles detailing: Background Physical traits Motivations Relationships Psychological dimensions Develop visual references/mood boards for 2-3 characters per story. 3. Story Outline Rewriting Convert treatments or synopses into: One-liners (loglines) 3-Act structure outlines Paragraph-length pitch synopses Explore alternate beginnings or endings tailored to genre tones such as suspense, satire, or horror. NON-FICTION STORY DEVELOPMENT 1. Subject Research & Timeline Curation Compile key elements for each non-fiction project (e.g., true crime, biography, investigative docs): Key events Stakeholders Legal/social developments Verified vs. speculative details Create visual chronologies or timelines. 2. Interview Content Curation Prepare background notes and interview questionnaires for journalists, witnesses, or experts. Connect with key stakeholders to coordinate interviews and research sessions. Summarize recorded interviews and transcripts into concise bullet-point documents. 3. Archive Building Collect and catalogue archival materials including: Footage News links Legal documents Audio clips Maintain a Google Sheet index with metadata: Date Credibility Source type 4. Fact vs. Fiction Sheet Develop column-based documentation for hybrid storytelling (e.g., docu-dramas): Incident Verified Facts Dramatized Elements Source