Undergraduate Intern - Modern Oral Future Platforms

Undergraduate Intern – Modern Oral Future Platforms: A Gateway to Innovation in a Transforming Industry

Are you an ambitious undergraduate student with a passion for science and innovation, eager to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and forward-thinking organization? British American Tobacco UK is offering a compelling 12-month undergraduate placement opportunity as an Undergraduate Intern – Modern Oral Future Platforms at their Southampton facility. This role is an exceptional chance to contribute to the evolution of a rapidly growing sector and play a part in shaping "A Better Tomorrow™" by building a smokeless world.

This placement is ideal for students pursuing degrees in Chemistry, Food Science, Materials Science, or related scientific disciplines. You will become an integral part of the Research & Development function, specifically focusing on the exciting "Modern Oral" category. This burgeoning area, encompassing oral nicotine pouches, is experiencing significant growth and promises continued expansion through 2025 and beyond.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Pioneering Research & Development: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge work, evaluating novel technologies and integrating new flavor developments. You'll build fundamental product knowledge crucial for creating next-generation consumer-centric products that deliver superior satisfaction.
• Real-World Impact: This isn't just an internship; it's an opportunity to work on projects that directly impact the business. You will be involved in the design, manufacturing, and testing of samples, contributing to the development of products that aim to maintain market leadership.
• Collaborative Environment: Foster strong working relationships with a diverse range of internal and external partners, including vendors, stakeholders, and centers of excellence within R&D. This experience will hone your collaboration and communication skills.
• Structured Development Program: BAT offers a well-established placement program with a dedicated team providing comprehensive training and development. This includes onboarding, presentation skills, critical thinking, scientific poster presentations, and invaluable networking opportunities with senior management.
• Mentorship and Support: You will be partnered with a dedicated mentor and have regular reviews with your Line Manager, ensuring continuous guidance and support throughout your placement.
• Skill Enhancement: Beyond technical expertise, this role is designed to cultivate your independent thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills. Opportunities for cross-functional and departmental collaboration will broaden your understanding of business operations.
• Career Progression Focus: BAT is committed to internal advancement. This placement is a stepping stone, offering a glimpse into a career path within a global organization that prioritizes employee growth and development through online learning platforms and personalized programs.
• Award-Winning Employer: Join a company recognized as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute, underscoring its commitment to excellent employee conditions and a culture of inclusivity.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Scientific Foundation: A strong academic background in Chemistry, Food Science, Materials Science, or a related field is essential. The role requires an experimental design and analytical mindset.
• Hands-On Aptitude: You should be comfortable with a hands-on approach, particularly in areas of prototyping and testing.
• Proactive and Inquisitive: Candidates are encouraged to be self-starters, demonstrate curiosity about the product, and not hesitate to ask questions or offer their perspectives.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: The ability to liaise effectively with multiple departments and stakeholders is critical for success in this role.
• Team Player Ethos: A collaborative and team-working spirit, aligned with BAT's values, is highly valued.
• Fixed-Term Commitment: This is a 12-month fixed-term placement, offering an intensive and valuable experience within a set timeframe.
• Future-Oriented Focus: The role is deeply involved in developing future product platforms, requiring an understanding of innovation and market trends within the smokeless product category.

This opportunity, starting in September 2026, is a fantastic chance to gain practical experience, develop essential professional skills, and contribute to a company at the forefront of industry transformation. If you are a motivated student ready to embrace new challenges and contribute to groundbreaking innovation, this placement at BAT could be the perfect launchpad for your career.