British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – MODERN ORAL PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)
We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Materials Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering or a related subject to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.
Modern Oral is one of BAT’s fastest-moving New Categories, focused on the development of oral nicotine pouches that are simple to use, consumer-centric and grounded in robust product science. This placement sits within the Modern Oral Product Development team and will support the discovery, development and delivery of products across current and emerging platforms. The role will contribute to building fundamental product knowledge, evaluating new product levers and technologies, and translating technical insights into product designs that improve consumer experience, satisfaction, quality and competitiveness.
The successful candidate will work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment, collaborating with colleagues across Product Development, Sensory, Analytical, Quality, Packaging, Manufacturing, Regulatory and external partners. The placement offers exposure to the full Modern Oral development lifecycle, from idea generation and lab-scale prototyping through to testing, data interpretation, product knowledge generation and preparation for scale-up or deployment.
A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme
In the UK, we offer 12-month placement opportunities starting in September 2027 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.
Your key responsibilities will include
- Supporting the development of consumer-centric Modern Oral products by exploring formulation, format, pouch, packaging and sensory levers
- Designing and executing experiments, including lab-based prototyping, product testing, sample preparation and data capture
- Working with internal stakeholders across Product Development, Analytical, Sensory, Quality, Packaging, Manufacturing and Regulatory to design, manufacture and evaluate prototype samples
- Analysing experimental results, drawing clear conclusions and making evidence‑based recommendations to support project decisions
- Independently managing work plans, timelines and documentation to support timely delivery of project milestones and learning objectives
- Capturing and sharing product knowledge to help strengthen Modern Oral technical understanding and support future innovation
What are we looking for?
- Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Food Science, Materials Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering or a closely related subject
- A curious and analytical mindset, with an interest in experimental design, data interpretation and product performance
- A hands‑on approach and willingness to learn practical product development, prototyping and testing techniques
- A proactive self‑starter who is inquisitive about how products work, confident asking questions and comfortable bringing fresh ideas to the team
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical information clearly to both specialist and non‑specialist stakeholders
- A collaborative, team‑oriented approach aligned with BAT’s values and a desire to contribute to a positive, inclusive team culture
What we offer you?
- We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
- Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work‑life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
- Your journey with us isn’t limited by boundaries; it’s propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn’t just a statement – it’s a reality we’re eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
- You’ll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
- We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes
- Meal Voucher/ Canteen as per location
- Private Pension
- Life & Health Insurance
- Yearly bonus based on the ABS
- Family support policy
- Office perks
- Flexible policy as per agreed Second Level agreement.
WHY JOIN BAT
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.
Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.
We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.
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