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Scientist - Toxicology

Southampton, United Kingdom

Contract Type Permanent
Career Level Experienced Professional
Function Research & Science
Salary Range Competitive salary
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Why Research and Development? Overview

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.

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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.

A Better Tomorrow

Building a Smokeless World is no small feat—it’s fueled by the collective efforts of talented individuals, each bringing their unique perspective. This is the most innovative chapter in BAT’s history, and you can help shape it.

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Scientist - Toxicology

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World. 
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for a SCIENTIST – TOXICOLOGY in Southampton

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?  

The purpose of the role is to lead the toxicological ingredient and material evaluations across BAT product platforms, in accordance with guidelines from the Product Stewardship Council (PSC) in line with the R&D Policy Framework, Corporate Positions, and specific legislation for our product categories. The role will deliver toxicological programs that can unlock novel products and ingredients commercially, while supporting the communication of our science to help position BAT as industry experts whilst achieving desired business growth.

What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organization?

The role will be the key contact to organize and conduct the toxicological assessment of novel ingredients, materials and technologies to be used in the development of a variety of novel products. They will deliver desk based toxicological evaluations in accordance with Internal BAT guidelines and the R&D policy framework to support BATs portfolio.

Toxicological evaluations will be carried out to support all stages of product development. This role encompasses strategic scope, with the delivery and communication of toxicological data packages for the identified ingredients and products across categories. The role will require new processes to be created to streamline evaluations and will require formalization of processes through robust documentation.

Work will be conducted under the guidance of the Senior Scientist, and other team members to overcome challenging assessments, outlining data requirements/gaps to build robust safety evaluations of products.

Role holder will be responsible for own and others’ workload management and communicating with partners (line managers and Project teams) on progress to achieve business milestones.

Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Be a knowledgeable and enabling partner to the project teams, guiding them on the toxicology evaluations, tests and design needed to build the data packages from early-stage sensory testing of prototypes to commercial launch.
  • Author, review and sign off risk assessments as part of the toxicological evaluation of new ingredients, technologies, and materials.
  • Support the development of strategies for toxicological evaluation of platform products, whilst challenging existing processes to identify and improve ways of working across the department with the endorsement of the Product Stewardship Council (PSC).
  • Apply appropriate solutions or approaches to identify and resolve problems based on an understanding and experience of biology, toxicology, or chemistry.
  • Oversee the planning and execution of risk assessments, working collaboratively within the team to deliver on time and in full for the business.
  • Provide training and coaching to junior members of the team and the wider business.
  • Maintain and build effective working relationships with internal partners, suppliers, and designated contacts within BAT.

What are we looking for?

Experience Required

  • Managing priorities in a fast-moving environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Positive ‘can do’ and keen problem-solving attitude.
  • Relevant science background equivalent to a degree level qualification, preferably with a good understanding of the principles of Toxicology. Ideally demonstrated technical background in toxicology test packages, particularly risk assessment.
  • Awareness of technical developments in toxicology & regulations (tobacco & consumer goods) desirable.
  • Proficient computing skills to facilitate use of in-house database and skilled user of Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and planning skills, and ability work both as a team member and independently.
  • Proven oral and written communication skills. Ability to tailor scientific communications to different audiences.
  • Demonstrable a positive attitude along with a drive to succeed and flexibility in adapting to new tasks and changing priorities.

Education / Qualifications / Certifications Required

  • Relevant science background equivalent to a degree level qualification, preferably in a biology or chemistry field, with good understanding of the principles of Toxicology.
  • MSc in Toxicology (or another relevant subject) advantageous but not essential.

BENEFICIAL

  • Understanding of the regulatory toxicology frameworks for foodstuffs and cosmetics
  • Member of a relevant professional body such as the British Toxicology Society

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.

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Our 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.

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

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“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.”

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.

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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.

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.

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