RateMyPlacement
My role in BAT was: * Supporting device HW engineering from concepting to implementation * Perform planned testing and understanding the device design, device failure modes, analysis of internal components of the devices (HW test tools, CT-scan, SEM, mechanical test equipment, Etc.), * Battery PCM testing etc.
Within my role I provided technical expertise to my team where requested whilst managing my own project(s). On a day to day basis I sit in and run meetings to ensure that projects are being run on time and that all work is completed to a high standard. When I am not in meetings I am usually in the lab conducting test on devices that I am working on to feed into the project.
Providing engineering support to various projects. Daily tasks involve laboratory work, data analysis, CAD work, prototyping using 3D printing, managing suppliers.
My role covered various aspects from routine analytical testing to research projects and participating in international analytical based laboratory trial to compare analytical testing across a variety of laboratories. On a day to day basis I would typically spend half my day in the lab and the other half report writing or planning.
I was given multiple projects throughout the year that focused on assessing the impacts of legislation in different markets. I had to review the legislation present, determine what obligations/ requirements the company would need to fulfil to enable market access and then implement a process to support this.
The role involves lots of research, design and experimentation of new technologies using prototype rigs. Once enough data has been collected, a recommendation is then put forward on whether or not the technology should continue. Conversations like this are happening on a daily basis in the company and it is always insightful to be a part of them.
Applied science is crutial for scientific understanding so, depending on what is currently required by the business, i may spend a day planning a study to increase the depth of understanding or i may spend the day analysing data and bridging the gap between prior knowledge and new information. These both come in the form of projects which have to be delivered to the highest calibre, and often provide great insight into important areas we are researching. In addition to this, i have a lot of contact with other departments, assisting with data generation and doing some lab work. I also had interactions with people across the globe, whether being external companies or other branches of BAT itself, i had a great opportunity to network across the world. This could come in the form of coordinating a team, working with an external company to aquire some niche data or direct collaboration with individuals.
There isn't a typical day-to-day role at BAT as working in such an innovative space means projects and tasks are ever changing. Over the year I worked on many projects but designed and managed one from start to finish. Every day I collaborate with external experts, keep up to date with the latest research, test new capabilities, and sometimes visit study sites! It's a lot of responsibility but I really enjoy it.
Yeah I enjoyed it from start to end honestly. What I enjoyed the most was the people and how approachable they were to support and make you feel like part of the company rather than just a placement student.
It was thoroughly enjoyable. There were of course, days which weren't as exciting, but these were few and far between. I was given tasks and projects which really contributed to the wider picture and weren't simply menial tasks. You're encouraged to do things for your self and manage your work load, which gives you a little more freedom over how you approach your projects. Training opportunities are given, so there are often opportunities to learn outside of your normal role, which mixes things up a bit.
I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at BAT. For me personally, the best part was the versatility of my role whereby I could decide on my own projects and I have found myself working in several different scientific areas. My department was brilliant, and has such a wide range of research areas that you naturally become involved in a variety of projects and topics.
I thoroughly enjoyed my placement at BAT. I was trusted with a brilliant project and given the freedom to plan and execute the project myself. The placement also involved a good balance of laboratory and office based work. I also met some great people at BAT, the interns and other staff at BAT. I got on very well with my team and felt very comfortable, so the year flew by. Everyone at BAT is very friendly, its full of opportunities to network and grow.
I've really enjoyed working at BAT. The work is challenging and meaningful, so you feel as though the work you do matters to the company and makes a difference. I've felt a sense of fulfilment from the work I have done, as I know that it is valued. The people are great, my whole department are excellent and have supported me a lot as I've learnt and grown. I've made lots of friends at work as I feel the people share a lot of my interests and values.
The work done was very enjoyable, due to working on actual projects of the business, rather than just being given side projects to do, although at times the work was difficult and there is a lot of pressure to deliver work on time. there is a great support system in place for the interns, with a placement team, buddies and mentors as well as your line manager, giving plenty of points of contact when the work is beyond your particular skill set.
I had mixed feelings before starting and I was quite overwhelmed about the idea of working for a year. But from the moment i started i felt more comfortable in my role. The scheme offers wonderful opportunities that most employees do not have access to in the first year. Such as networking with the leadership team including members of the board and a presentation as well to the leadership team. Having around 10 other interns spaced out in different teams in the company lets you know your lot alone as well as sufficiently distancing from them on a day-to-day basis to get on with work
I have really enjoyed my time at BAT. The work I have achieved during this year has been really fulfilling. All the skills and knowledge I have developed will translate into all aspects of my future career.
I really enjoyed my placement year at BAT. My colleagues and the other interns were friendly and supportive, I was given a lot of independence to own my projects and workstreams and the working environment was fast paced and exciting. It was a great eye opener to the reality of working in R&D for a large multinational company. The projects I worked on were varied and across different products and brands meaning I could get a good overview of BAT’s product portfolio.
The whole placement was an overall amazing experience. I felt valued and created lasting work that will be used in the future. The work that I completed was interesting and challenging, covering new parts of RnD that I had not been exposed too before.
