Modern Oral Substrate Innovation Intern

The British American Tobacco Group; Southampton; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Healthcare plans

Transport support

Flexible holiday plan

Job summary

British American Tobacco UK invites undergraduates in Chemistry or Materials Science for a 12-month internship in Southampton within the Modern Oral Substrate Innovation team. You will develop and test novel materials, prototypes and substrate technologies for oral nicotine pouch products, contributing to the innovation pipeline.

You will work hands-on in labs, design experiments, analyse data, build prototypes and collaborate with global BAT R&D partners, gaining valuable industry experience

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Chemistry or Materials Science or related subject.
• Keen interest in materials, substrates and product development.
• Hands-on laboratory experience is advantageous.
• Strong data interpretation and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist development and evaluation of substrate and product technologies for Modern Oral.
• Plan and conduct laboratory experiments, prototyping and performance assessments.
• Collect and analyse technical data; present findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal R&D teams and external technology partners.
• Maintain accurate records and support project planning and delivery.

Skills

Materials interest

Chemistry

Product development

Experimental mindset

Data analysis

Organisational/planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Undergraduate student in Chemistry or Materials Science

Job description

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 – MODERN ORAL SUBSTRATE INNOVATION (Materials & Product) in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)

We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Chemistry or Material Science (or a related subject) to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.

Modern Oral (oral nicotine pouches) is one of BAT's fastest-growing product categories and continues to be a key area of innovation within R&D. This placement is with our Modern Oral Substrate Innovation Team and will focus on the evaluation, development and testing of novel materials, substrate technologies and product concepts for oral nicotine pouches. The successful candidate will play a hands‑on role in generating technical evidence, developing prototypes, and supporting the future innovation pipeline for the category. The team is responsible for developing and evaluating innovative product technologies designed to enhance the consumer experience and support future product platforms. The role offers opportunities to collaborate with internal R&D teams, external technology partners and centres of excellence across BAT's global innovation network

This internship will allow the candidate to:

• Apply scientific first principles to solve real product development challenges
• Design and execute laboratory experiments to evaluate novel materials and technologies
• Develop prototypes and conduct performance testing at laboratory and pilot scale
• Analyse technical data and translate findings into clear recommendations
• Work alongside scientists, engineers, product developers and external technology partners
• Build technical, project management and stakeholder engagement skills within a global R&D organisation

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 in 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 31st of December if we have a high level of applications.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the development and evaluation of novel substrate and product technologies for Modern Oral products
• Planning and executing laboratory experiments, prototyping activities and performance assessments
• Collecting, analysing and interpreting technical data to support project decisions
• Collaborating with internal R&D teams and external technology partners
• Maintaining accurate experimental records and communicating results to stakeholders
• Supporting project planning and delivery against agreed objectives and timelines
• Supporting innovation projects from concept generation through experimentation, testing and technical recommendation.
• Presenting findings and recommendations to technical and business stakeholders

What are we looking for

• Strong interest in materials, chemistry, product development or consumer products
• Experimental mindset with an ability to design and interpret scientific investigations
• Hands‑on approach to laboratory work, prototyping and testing
• Curiosity, initiative and willingness to challenge assumptions
• Ability to analyse data and communicate findings clearly
• Strong organisational and planning skills
• Collaborative approach and enthusiasm for working in cross‑functional teams

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-

#LI-Hybrid