22 February 2001

Scientists for a castaway programme

A TV researcher working on the new series of Rough Science for BBC2 is looking for Scientists for a castaway programme. This is a prime-time series presented by Kate Humble in which a group of scientists are located on an island, cut off from modern day conveniences. They are set a range of challenges which they must solve using their scientific knowledge and ingenuity, eg generating electricity, making toothpaste, working out the exact longitude & latitude of their location etc.

After a highly successful first series, the BBC are now planning the second series, which will be filmed this summer. They are interested in looking for possible new participants and are particularly keen to find new female participants. In addition, they are keen to increase the ethnic diversity of the participants.

The BBC are looking for 2-3 people. One of these people will probably have a physics/engineering background, be generally knowledgeable and able to improvise, think laterally, and invent/build structures set in the challenges. The second person will probably be an earth scientist/geologist who hopefully also knows something of cartography and may have an additional wider environmental knowledge eg ecology & plant taxonomy (we don't ask for much!) They too must be able to think laterally and find solutions for problems using basic equipment and resources found on the island.

The BBC are looking for people who are strong, likeable, comfortable on camera, fun, have a good sense of humour and can communicate in an accessible way. They don't need to have previous TV experience, but must be enthusiastic.

They are particularly interested in finding women to fit these roles, but I'd be interested in hearing of possible male stars too! Although they are looking for participants from these particular fields, at this stage the BBC are interested in hearing of good people from the broad range of different scientific fields. If the right person comes along, they will try to accommodate them.

If you can make any suggestions or can help in any way, please contact Anna Abott at the BBC on mobile 07796 452 619. Email: anna.abbott@bbc.co.uk Or 01908 655 351 (tel) Or 01908 655 300 (fax)