Overview

The NI Science Festival (NISF) is seeking two emerging film programmers (aged 18-28) to help develop a regionwide programme of enhanced film screenings for the 2027 NI Science Festival. The festival will take place from 10th – 21st February 2027.

Supported by Film Hub, this project aims to bring science focused films and cultural experiences to the wider NI community. Through hosting screenings in community venues, unique local spaces and working with local film clubs we want to create an experience that sparks curiosity and conversation.

Successful applicants will gain practical experience in film curation, audience development, partnership working and event planning. Through this programme we hope to:

• Develop new and diverse voices in film programming.
• Create engaging film experiences for audiences in regional and rural communities.
• Connect film with contemporary issues in science
• Build new audiences for cultural cinema.
• Explore approaches to screening films outside traditional cinema settings.

As an organisation dedicated to making science accessible and engaging, we are interested in programmes that use film as a starting point for exploring the big questions and issues that are relevant to our local communities and everyday lives. 

Opportunity 

We are recruiting two NISF Young Programmers (aged 18-28) to work collaboratively with the NI Science Festival team to curate a programme of approximately 8–10 film events between them.

Programmers will:

• Research and propose films for inclusion in the programme.
• Develop an approach that connects films to contemporary scientific, environmental, technological, or societal issues.
• Identify opportunities for enhanced activity alongside screenings.
• Contribute to audience development and community engagement ideas.
• Attend planning meetings with the festival team.
• Support the delivery of selected events where possible.

Fee

Each programmer will receive a curatorial fee of £840, based on 7 non-consecutive days of work, a total of 56 hours at £15 per hour 

The role offers flexibility, and programmers are free to manage their hours in a way that suits their schedule, provided agreed deadlines are met. Applicants should be available to attend occasional planning meetings with the NI Science Festival team as part of these hours.

This fee covers research, programming development, meetings, and contribution to the delivery of the project.

Proposal Requirements

If you are interested in the role please submit a proposal of no more than 2 pages that includes the following.

About You

Tell us a little about yourself, your age, your interests, and why this opportunity appeals to you. Also, tell us what you hope to gain from participating in the programme and what skills you would like to develop.

Programming Ideas

Outline a theme, topic, or issue you would like to explore through film. Please include examples of films you might programme and explain why they are relevant to your chosen theme.

Audience & Venue

Who do you think this programme is for? Do you have a proposed venue or regional area that it would be most suitable for and why?

Enhanced Activity 

Describe any ideas you have for discussions, workshops, guest speakers, performances, or other activities you would include alongside screenings to deepen audience engagement.

Selection Criteria 

Applications will be assessed against:

• Creativity and originality of the proposal.
• Strength of the curatorial idea.
• Understanding of audience engagement.
• Suitability for delivery in regional or rural locations.
• Enthusiasm for developing programming skills.
• Potential contribution to the overall programme.

We anticipate making selections based on the written proposals, however, if a high number of applications score similarly, shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal interview to discuss their proposal and interest in the programme. 

Key Dates

Application Deadline: 12 noon, Monday 27th July, 2026

Programme Development Period: August to Mid-October 2026

Festival Dates: 10th – 21st February 2027:

To Apply

Please send your two-page proposal covering the areas highlighted in ‘Proposal Requirements’ to stephanie@nisciencefestival.com

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 27th July.

If you have any further questions please contact Stephanie at stephanie@nisciencefestival.com

This information can be downloaded as a PDF here: NISF Young Programmer Brief

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