Strategic Flavour Innovation Undergraduate Placement

Job Details

Strategic Flavour Innovation Undergraduate Placement

We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Cognitive Science / Neuroscience, Experimental or Biological Psychology, Psychology with Neuroscience or Natural Sciences to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.

This placement is with our Strategic Flavour Innovation Team and will focus on flavour innovations across our product portfolio. Consumer preference is largely steered by flavour quality which is mediated by various sensory systems including tactile, olfactory and gustatory senses. It is therefore crucial to design discovery processes for new flavour materials and technologies and assess the later for an optimum product fit. This role will involve an end-to-end approach to flavour innovation from early discovery to creation and operations and span a broad spectrum of scientific fields including Neurosciences, Flavour Chemistry, Sensory Science and Analytical Chemistry.

What you will do during the placement

• Design experiments and conduct lab-based research (and the associated trainings)
• Deliver scientific workstreams involving flavour chemistry, neuroscience, sensory science and analytical chemistry to identify new flavour materials and technologies
• Identify opportunities for novel flavour concepts and assessing their fit across our product categories in collaboration with product development teams
• Process data and conduct statistical analysis

What you will bring to the role

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Cognitive Science / Neuroscience, Experimental or Biological Psychology, Psychology with Neuroscience or Natural Sciences
• Awareness of the application of scientific principles in chemistry with good lab practice understanding
• Motivation to learn about taste and smell recognition, working with flavour materials and developing early prototypes in a multi-purpose lab and office environment embracing new techniques in research.
• Scientific curiosity and critical thinking to drive experimentation and lead their own project
• Collaborative attitude and ability to communicate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Willingness and ability to move and adjust quickly and easily to change

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.