Biotechnology Placement

Biotechnology Placement

Why Research and Development?

We are on a journey to A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. A world where smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke, have migrated to smokeless alternatives. This is why we are always innovating, experimenting, and delivering new solutions. This is why our R&D and Science department is so important to the business, and we are investing and accelerating our activities to generate new science and innovation. Today, we operate in a broad spectrum of scientific fields including molecular biology, toxicology, and chemistry, and it is that breadth of expertise which fuels the relentless innovation and learning that sets us apart as an industry leader.

Why BAT?

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers - It's one of the many reasons we have been named as a Global Top Employer for the eighth consecutive year.

We believe that Leadership shouldn’t be confined to titles. It’s a mindset and through our leading Learning and Development programmes, you’ll continuously develop your skills and experience. With our unwavering support, you’ll work in cross functional teams connecting with industry leaders and expanding your professional network.

Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an Undergraduate Intern – Biotechnology – Fixed-term (12 months)

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

This placement is with our Science discovery-Biotechnology team and will focus on Chemical recycling and sustainability of end of life products. The biotechnology team are part of BAT’s Research and Science Sciences function, and provides expertise in chemical conversion of waste streams and to provide scientific data to substantiate the company and corporate sustainable future goals.

Science is the back bone of our new reduce harm products and managing the impact that our products have on the environment is paramount for BAT. This role will involve hands on experience using chemical reactors, analytical techniques such as GCMS, HPLC, FTIR, DSC, etc. The role will require project management and stakeholder engagement.

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 2026) 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.

This role is due to start in September 2026, and we will be shortlisting applications and carrying out video/ online interviews whilst the advert is live. We will look to make an offer to the successful candidate as close to the closing date as possible. However, the vetting and onboarding processes for successful candidates won’t begin until the role is opened in our system, which is likely to be later in 2026, so we will contact successful candidates again to commence these processes when the position opens.

We reserve the right to close this advert before the 31st of December if we have a high level of applications.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Designing experiments and conducting lab-based research (and the associated trainings)
• Performing chemical reactions using automated systems
• Processing data and report writing

What are we looking for?

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, Chemical engineering, Material science or a closely related subject;
• Motivation to build on lab work experience, to work using teal life scale reactors and eager to learn analytical techniques
• Scientific curiosity and critical thinking;
• Collaborative attitude and ability to communicate with both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

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

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.

At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as 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, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.

We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their 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.

We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.

Values

At BAT, our values show us the way to bring our purpose to life. Serving as our compass, they navigate every aspect of our path towards A Better Tomorrow™ defining how we innovate, grow, and achieve success while setting high standards for individual achievement and collective progress. Rooted in integrity and collaboration, they empower us as pioneers of change in a world that never stands still ensuring we shape BAT's legacy with confidence and purpose.

• Truly inclusive
• Do the right thing
• Love for our consumer
• Passion to win
• Empowered through trust
• Stronger together

Take Control of Your Future with BAT

At BAT, we’re committed to more than just jobs, we’re dedicated to purposeful careers.

We believe that everyone has a place in our organisation.

Whether you are seeking mentorship, diversifying your experience through international assignments or embracing innovative work methods, we’re here to propel your career aspirations and unleash your full potential.

We believe in you.

Join us at BAT, where purpose meets possibility, and your career story unfolds.

“A great thing about my job is how it has allowed me to explore my leadership abilities by working in cross-functional and dynamic teams, while also dedicating myself to innovative research and exploring new frontiers.”

Dr James Ebajemito Senior Scientist, Scientific Foresights, UK

Benefits

At our core, we understand your best work happens when you feel fully supported. Our meticulously designed reward and benefits package are shaped to acknowledge your contributions and to magnify your impact. As you grow, so do we.

Financial Wellbeing

Peace of mind is priceless, but it shouldn’t cost the earth. Benefits and initiatives designed to assist you in achieving financial stability and security, empowering you to make well informed financial decisions, alleviate financial stress, and enhance your short and long-term prospects.

Social Wellbeing

Wellbeing is better when it’s shared. Benefits that foster a sense of community and connection among employees. The more time we make to give back and share what it means to live well with the communities around us, the closer we’ll be to them. We encourage positive social interactions inside and outside BAT, enhance collaboration, and create a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and connected.

Emotional Wellbeing

Balancing work and life to help you recharge and stay resilient. Benefits and initiatives that are designed to bolster our employees' mental health. At BAT we're fostering a culture of to help our employees to better manage life’s pressures and build resilience, no matter what life throws your way.

Physical Wellbeing

Good health is the cornerstone that allows everything else in our lives to align. Benefits that support our employees' physical health, expand coverage where needed it and promote healthy lifestyles, reducing stress and boosting overall energy and productivity.

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.