Nelson’s PhD research project investigates the historical evolution of the film and television workforce in Scotland by looking into the career paths and strategies for career sustainability of local freelance crew personnel over the last half-century. Throughout this period the Scottish screen sector has gone through significant changes in terms of scope, production activity and economic value, and the local freelance workforce has proved to be a key element in the development and success of the sector. However, little is known about the career strategies of individuals who managed to forge their path into the job market over the years, especially when it comes to those working in craft and technical roles, such as camera operation, sound recording, costume design, make-up, and functions across the art department.

The project 'Film Bang Communities of Practice' draws on data from the 'Film Bang' directory of Scottish-based freelance crew personnel, published from 1976 to date, archival materials, and a series of oral history interviews with selected freelancers. Overall, it is hoped that by uncovering the stories of these professionals it may be possible to gain new insights into the Scottish screen production sector and help with the preservation of Scotland’s screen culture heritage.

Nelson’s research is supported by the Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities (SGSAH) and collaboratively supervised by the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Napier University and the National Library of Scotland Moving Image Archive.