Applied Product Science Placement 2027

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – APPLIED PRODUCT SCIENCE in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)

We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Chemistry, Materials Science (or a physical science-related subject) to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.

This placement is with our Applied Product Science Team and will focus on the management of several key product science activities and projects. The Applied Product Science team are part of BAT’s New Categories R&D and our science underpins the development and characterisation of new technologies to be developed into future products. The role holder will also be responsible for scoping and designing scientific studies, execution of testing, analysis, and interpretation of data to provide recommendations to internal stakeholders.

A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme

In the UK, we offer 12-months placement opportunities (starting on 1st September 2027) to undergraduate students looking to gain practical experience within a vibrant and innovative industrial setting. As part of the scheme, you will be partnered with a mentor, have regular reviews with your Line Manager and work on projects that impact the business.

BAT has an established placement programme, with a dedicated Placement Team, which provides training and development throughout the placement. This includes sessions for onboarding, presentation skills, critical thinking, scientific poster presentations and ‘speed networking’ with senior management. Successful applicants are provided with multiple opportunities to develop transferable skills in addition to gaining ‘hands on’ experience in a technical discipline.

As part of the scheme students get a chance to cultivate their independent thinking and problem-solving skills in addition to working in and contributing to a team. Cross functional/department working and participation in other research activities is also encouraged, where appropriate. Previous work experience in a practical ‘hands-on’ role would be useful but not essential.

This role is due to start in September 2027, and we will be shortlisting applications and carrying out video/ online interviews whilst the advert is live. We will look to make an offer to the successful candidate as close to the closing date as possible. However, the vetting and onboarding processes for successful candidates won’t begin until the role is opened in our system, which is likely to be later in 2027, so we will contact successful candidates again to commence these processes when the position opens.

We reserve the right to close this advert before the 31st of December if we have a high level of applications.

Your key responsibilities will include

• Managing projects / key activities (timelines and deliverables) for both internal and external partners
• Literature research
• Defining study approach and designing test products
• Designing experiments
• Conducting / commissioning experiments
• Interpreting data (collating, analysing and statistically evaluating data)
• Preparing for technical reviews
• Writing reports and presentations on key findings, outcomes, and recommendations

What are we looking for?

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in chemistry, material science or a physical science related discipline
• General laboratory skills and attention to detail
• The ability to design and conduct experiments and investigate science from first principles.
• Scientific curiosity and critical evaluation of data
• Experience in writing scientific reports

What you will receive

• Salary of £26,700 per annum
• Subsidised on-site gym membership
• Subsidised lunches
• 25 days annual leave
• Free on-site parking
• Participation in the Discretionary Company Bonus Scheme
• Participation in the Company Share Reward Scheme
• Participation in the Company Pension Scheme
• Private Healthcare Cover
• Eligibility for Company Flexible Benefits Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Access to online learning platforms and personalised growth programs to nurture your leadership skills

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes
• Benefits: Meal Voucher/ Canteen as per location; Private Pension; Life & Health Insurance; Yearly bonus based on the ABS; Family support policy; Office perks; Flexible policy as per agreed Second Level agreement.

WHY JOIN BAT?

We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience.

Apply

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button. Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.