BBC launches broadcasting talent contest
An X Factor style talent contest designed to uncover a fresh voice for the radio has been launched by BBC Radio 3 and the Arts and Humanities Research Council.
10 academics with areas of expertise ranging from fan mail to deserts have been selected to take part in the voice off as producers seek the individual with the greatest flair for broadcasting.
The group includes Alexandra Harris, an English lecturer from Liverpool University, who is researching how the cold has affected English culture.
Harris will be joined by Phillip Roscoe, a lecturer from St Andrew’s University who is looking at how economics shapes the moral landscape in day to day activities such as internet dating.
Matthew Dodds, head of speech programming on Radio 3, said: “We are looking for people with the most interesting ideas who want to share their knowledge and can make fantastic programmes.”
Each of the 10 will be given their own slot on Night Waves from tonight as well as appearing in a series of New Generation thinkers debates.