Data Science Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Data Science Undergraduate Placement

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

This placement is with our Data Science Team and will focus on performing data-focused activities to support R&D’s Harm Reduction portfolio. BAT R&D is undergoing a digital and data transformation to accelerate our approach to research and science. The Data Science team is at the forefront of this transformation in leading the automation and interrogation of data to extract maximum value. This role will play an integral part in continuing to drive the business transformation.

What you will do during the placement

• Develop automated data handling pipelines
• Develop business tools (i.e. software programmes)
• Perform data stewardship activities
• Create dashboards

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in a STEM field.
• Basic coding proficiency (Python and/or R preferred).
• Ideally, demonstratable experience in building software solutions to solve real-life challenges.
• An innovation and leading change mindset – challenging the status quo and demonstrating business value.

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.