Undergraduate Placement - Scientific Affairs - Research & Science

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!

We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biosciences, Pharmacology, or similar scientific subject, to join our Research & Science function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.

The Scientific Affairs team plays a critical role in communicating BAT’s scientific evidence supporting Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) and shaping the external scientific narrative around Smokeless Products. To support this mission, we are seeking enthusiastic and motivated interns to join our team.

This internship offers a unique opportunity for a student with a strong interest in science communication, public health, or regulatory science to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and impactful area of research and engagement. The intern will assist in the development and coordination of scientific content, support scientific engagement activities, and contribute to the tracking and summarising of emerging THR-related science.

By supporting the team’s strategic initiatives, the intern will gain exposure to cross-functional collaboration, scientific storytelling, and the role of science in regulatory and public health contexts. This role is ideal for a student looking to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting while developing valuable skills in communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement.

A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme:

In the UK, we offer 12-months placement opportunities (starting on 1st 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.

This role is due to start in September 2027, 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 2027, 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 31^st of December if we have a high level of applications.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Support development of scientific content and assets including fact sheets, slide decks and summaries.
• Track and summarise emerging THR science, publications and news.
• Assist with the amplification of BAT’s science through campus visits/tours.
• Support maintenance of BAT’s scientific content library.
• Participate in cross-functional collaboration with teams including those within Life Sciences, Product Development and Corporate and Regulatory Affairs.
• Assist with scientific publication and conference planning, abstract tracking and presentation logistics working across all the research and science teams.
• Conduct literature reviews and background research to support scientific narratives.
• Support the development of stakeholder engagement digital platforms.
• Support tracking and reporting of scientific engagement activities and outcomes

What are we looking for?

• Students working towards an undergraduate degree in a life science discipline (Chemistry, Biology, Biosciences, Pharmacology, or similar science degree).
• Interest or existing skills in design and content creation and science communication would be beneficial.
• Strong communication, project management, and leadership skills
• Be self-motivated and proactive, with good time management and organisational skills
• Collaborative and positive attitude

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
• Benefits:
  • 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. 

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential. #LI-Hybrid