Analytical Science Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Analytical Science Undergraduate Placement

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

This placement is with our Analytical Development team and will focus on gaining hands-on training and experience with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry equipment and techniques. Throughout your placement, you will enhance your skills in data analysis, scripting, and process automation within a busy R&D setting, collaborate with experienced scientists and contribute to innovative research projects, as well as develop a deeper understanding of the applications of analytical chemistry in industry. The placement will further allow you to identify, define, and plan a research project to address an analytical challenge or question using practical skills and specialised knowledge.

What you will do during the placement

• Develop, validate, and test an automated workflow for mass-spectrometry-based non-targeted analysis in one or more R&D projects
• Design a programme with which to analyse and interpret complex spectral data
• Work closely with experienced scientists in the planning, design and conduct of laboratory experiments for R&D projects
• Develop and/or optimize one or more relevant analytical methods (e.g. measurement of constituents of modern oral products)

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Forensic Science, or a related discipline
• Awareness of analytical and chemical sciences
• Basic knowledge of mass spectrometry
• Experience with data analysis
• Experience with Python or R

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.