Applied Chemometrics Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Applied Chemometrics Undergraduate Placement

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

This placement is with our Applied Chemometrics Team and will focus on development and application of analytical methods coupled with machine learning in product development. Analytical methods combined with chemometrics are crucial in the industry as they enable precise quality control, product optimization, and innovation. By leveraging these techniques, our business can analyse complex data sets to detect patterns, ensure product consistency, and comply with regulatory standards. Chemometrics enhances the interpretation of analytical data, facilitating the development of new products and improving existing ones. This scientific approach ultimately drives efficiency, reduces costs, and enhances consumer satisfaction by ensuring high-quality products in a competitive market. This role will involve the study of analytical method development (mainly spectroscopic and chromatographic methods) as well as the machine learning applied to chemistry to deliver the aim.

What you will do during the placement

• Design experiments and conduct lab-based research (and the associated trainings).
• Deliver scientific analytical methodologies involving spectroscopic or chromatographic techniques; as well as delivering validation reports of the methodologies developed.
• Complete a range of machine learning applications and data mining techniques; from tradition ML methodologies to the news ones, including variable selection and exploratory methods.

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related subject
• Motivation to work in analytical lab environment and learn machine learning python scripts – chemistry, computer science and statistics
• 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.