Book Research Assistant

BONDED: The Annual Irish Whiskey Handbook BONDED is a new annual publication dedicated to documenting the people, places, distilleries, brands, and stories of Irish whiskey. Launching in 2027, our goal is to create the definitive annual record of Irish whiskey, similar to the role the Malt Whisky Yearbook plays within Scotch whisky. We're looking for a highly organized Research Assistant to help build and maintain the database that will underpin the publication. This is a remote, flexible, part-time contract position. About the Role This role combines research, fact-checking, data management, and outreach. You will be responsible for gathering, verifying, and organizing information from Irish distilleries and other industry sources. You do not need to be an Irish whiskey expert. Curiosity, persistence, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are far more important. Responsibilities * Research Irish distilleries, whiskey brands, and industry developments. * Build and maintain detailed spreadsheets and databases. * Verify facts using multiple sources. * Contact distilleries by email and telephone to gather and confirm information. * Track key dates, milestones, releases, ownership changes, and personnel appointments. * Maintain source records and references. * Follow up with distilleries and contributors when information is missing or incomplete. * Assist with compiling annual timelines and "Year in Irish Whiskey" content. * Organize photographs, links, and supporting materials. The Ideal Candidate You: * Enjoy finding answers to difficult questions. * Are comfortable speaking with people on the phone. * Write professional, concise emails. * Have excellent attention to detail. * Are highly organized. * Can manage spreadsheets confidently. * Work well independently. * Follow instructions carefully. * Are persistent when responses are slow. Experience in journalism, publishing, archives, libraries, research, business intelligence, genealogy, history, or market research would be advantageous. Skills Required: * Online research * Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel * Written English * Data organization * Communication and follow-up Desirable: * Experience conducting interviews * Database management * Familiarity with AI-assisted research tools * Publishing or editorial experience Hours * Approximately 10–15 hours per week initially * Flexible schedule * Remote * Potential for ongoing work on future editions Application Please include: 1. A brief introduction. 2. Relevant experience. 3. An example of a project that required extensive research and organization. 4. Your hourly rate. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete a paid test project involving the creation of an Irish whiskey distillery profile. The successful candidate will help create what we hope becomes the annual historical record of Irish whiskey.