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!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – Scientific Affairs in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)

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:

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 Smokeless Products and apply the highest standard s for pro duct 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 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…