Undergraduate Placement - Population Health Science - Research & Science

Date: 1 Oct 2026

Location: Southampton, GB

Company: British American Tobacco

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 –
Population Health Science
in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)

We have an exciting opportunity for a student who is currently undertaking a degree in Public Health, Population Health, Data Science, Biomedical/Health Informatics, or a related discipline, ideally with relevant modules or interest in epidemiology, population health, health data or real‑world evidence to join our Research & Science function, based in Southampton, for a 12‑month undergraduate placement.

This placement is with our Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) Science team within the wider Global Life Science (GLS) department. THR seeks to reduce smoking‑related harm by supporting adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke to switch completely to non‑combustible tobacco and nicotine alternatives. Population evidence is used to understand who uses these products, how behaviours change, what health outcomes result, and what the potential overall impact on population health is likely to be.

The placement student will gain experience in evidence mapping, epidemiology, real‑world evidence (RWE), surveillance, digital health and strategic scientific planning, while contributing to a priority project with clear business and scientific relevance.

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 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 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…