Function: Research & Science / Analytical Centre of Excellence (CoE)
Tenure: Temporary position until mid March 2027
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Senior Analytical Scientist to join the Analytical Discovery team, providing technical leadership, delivery, and innovation across BAT's New Categories product portfolio. This role is central to the development and deployment of novel analytical approaches and cross‑category method development, supporting product innovation, regulatory engagement, and BAT's Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) and Sustainable Future ambitions.
Operating as part of the Analytical Centre of Excellence, the role will collaborate closely with global laboratory hubs, cross‑functional stakeholders, and external scientific partners to deliver high‑quality, fit‑for‑purpose analytical data.
Key Objectives & Expectations
Provide technical direction, execution, and delivery of Analytical Discovery programmes, developing novel analytical methodologies to support BAT's New Categories product development
Be accountable for the development of tools, knowledge, and analytical data across BAT's New Categories, strengthening analytical capability within the CoE
Lead cross‑category method development to ensure robust, scalable, and accredited analytical solutions aligned to innovation and regulatory needsImpact on the Organisation
Development and application of cutting‑edge analytical capabilities, enabling product innovation, technical problem‑solving, patent strategy ("patent chess"), and competitor analysis
Delivery of fast, reliable, end‑to‑end, accredited analytical data to support the full New Categories product lifecycle across:
Analytical CoE global hubs
BAT global laboratory network
External third‑party partners
Support Quality Growth by providing high‑quality, defensible analytical data for:
Foundational product understanding
Product stewardship
Regulatory submissions
Competitor analysis and patents
Enable Sustainable Future and THR ambitions through cutting‑edge analytical outputs that support regulatory engagement, scientific communications, and external collaborationsKey Responsibilities
Plan, execute, and report analytical activities using agreed methodologies, equipment, and best practice
Lead analytical method development, validation (including ISO 17025), and routine deployment within a quality‑assured environment
Act as a senior technical representative with cross‑functional teams and internal/external stakeholders
Ensure analytical data meets defined quality, governance, and data standards (RDRT) while aligning with BAT's digital transformation roadmap
Maintain clear, consistent ways of working and promote a culture of continuous improvement
Author and deliver R&D technical reports, scientific publications, and internal/external presentations
Apply project management disciplines to ensure delivery on time and in full (OTIF)
Promote and adhere to EH&S policy and regulatory compliance
Monitor competitor activity and emerging trends within analytical scienceExperience, Skills & Knowledge
Essential Experience
5+ years' experience within a relevant analytical science environment
Extensive hands‑on experience analysing highly complex matrices using advanced analytical techniques, including:
Accurate mass spectrometry (LC‑MS / GC‑MS Orbitrap)
GC×GC‑TOFMS
TGA‑IST16‑GC‑MS
GC‑MS, LC‑MS, FTIR, NIR
Strong experience in non‑targeted screening and advanced data processing platforms
Expertise in isolating and measuring trace‑level compounds in complex matrices
Experience operating, calibrating, and maintaining whole aerosol robots / smoking engines
Proven experience with method development and validation in ISO 17025 and/or GxP‑compliant laboratories
Authoring R&D technical reports, conference materials, and peer‑reviewed publications
Experience with Orbitrap data processing tools (e.g. Compound Discoverer), Python, or statistical analysis is highly advantageousTechnical, Functional & Leadership Skills
Broad expertise in sample preparation, wet chemistry, and advanced instrumental analysis
Strong awareness of emerging analytical science and technology trends
Experience working within and improving quality management systems
Ability to engage senior stakeholders and communicate complex analytical outputs clearly
Experience supporting external scientific collaborations, technology transfer, and cross‑laboratory validation
Proven ability to coach and supervise technical staff
Strong project ownership, financial awareness, and delivery accountabilityQualifications
BSc or MSc (1st or 2:1) in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline
Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. Royal Society of Chemistry) or evidence of ongoing CPDWhy Join Us?
Work at the forefront of analytical discovery and innovation
High visibility, high‑impact role within a global R&D organisation
Opportunity to shape analytical capability supporting New Categories, sustainability, and THR science
Collaborative, technically driven environment with strong leadership and external engagement This role is to provide Maternity cover initially
Pay:
£29.71 per hour (PAYE) or £40.66 per hour (Umbrella)
Salary description
£29.71 - £40.66 per hour