Preclinical Sciences Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Preclinical Sciences Undergraduate Placement

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

This placement is with our Preclinical Sciences Team and will focus on developing and implementing in vitro toxicology approaches for the assessment of our products. The Preclinical Sciences Team are part of BAT’s Global Life Sciences function and provide expertise in in vitro and in silico toxicology. We support product development and provide scientific data to substantiate the reduced risk potential of New Category products (tobacco heated products, vapour products, and nicotine pouches) compared to traditional cigarettes.

New Category product development is rapidly evolving, along with global regulatory frameworks and scientific testing approaches. This role will involve evaluating new approach methodologies (NAMs) for their usefulness for supporting our product pipeline. This role’s specific areas of focus will be hazard screening methodologies as well as more complex models of smoking-related diseases, and the integration of computational toxicology approaches.

What you will do during the placement

• Design experiments and conduct lab-based research (and the associated trainings)
• Perform in vitro mammalian cell culture and toxicological assays
• Process data and conduct statistical analysis

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Biology, Toxicology, Pharmacology, or a related subject
• Motivation to build on lab work experience, to work using aseptic techniques, and to learn aerosol exposure and cell culture skills
• 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.