Physics / Aerosol Mechanics Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Physics / Aerosol Mechanics Undergraduate Placement

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

This placement is within our Heating and Aerosol Mechanics Team and will focus on exploiting emerging technologies for the generation of aerosols from both liquid and solid media. Our Vaping and Heated Products rely on the delivery of an aerosol containing nicotine, flavours, and excipients to the consumers mouth and lungs. We would like to move beyond current technologies to find new ways of generating and delivering aerosols that advance our harm reduction and sustainability objectives. The role involves working with a wide range of internal and external subject matter experts, designing and running laboratory experiments, interpreting and presenting results, and delivering recommendations to the business.

What you will do during the placement

• Deliver scientific workstreams involving discovery and evaluation of emerging technology for the generation of aerosols
• Design and commission test rigs with rapid prototyping experts
• Design experiments and conducting lab-based research
• Complete a range of physical measurements of emitted aerosol
• Process data, conduct statistical analysis, and present results, conclusions and recommendations

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Physics or a related subject
• Motivation to work in a Good Laboratory Practice environment
• Interest and/or experience in statistical analysis
• Scientific curiosity and critical thinking
• Strong collaboration skills
• Ability to communicate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences

What you will receive  

• Salary of £24,000 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

A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme

We make significant investments in Research and Development to deliver innovations that satisfy or anticipate consumer needs and generate growth for the business. We conduct cutting-edge research to evaluate our Potentially Reduced Risk Products (PRRPs) and apply the highest standards for product safety and quality. Successful applicants will be involved in our extensive scientific research program which spans a broad spectrum of scientific fields - including molecular biology, human biology, toxicology, chemistry, biomedical sciences, psychology, neuroscience, sensorial science, data science, computer science, product design, and engineering disciplines.

In the UK, we offer 12-months placement opportunities (starting on 1st September 2025) 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.

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.