RSSL (Reading Scientific Services Limited) is a multi-award-winning food and pharmaceutical research organization, pushing the boundaries of science to make our world safer, healthier, and more sustainable. Our clients, based across 70 countries, trust us to deliver intelligent solutions to real-world problems through rigorous analytical testing, cutting-edge research and development, customised consultancy, and training services.
Are you ready to make an impact at RSSL?
Join Our Mission to Transform Lives Through Science, Innovation and Collaboration
At Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL), we lead the way in scientific analysis, research, consultancy, and training. We provide services to the food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods industries, as well as our parent company, Mondelez International. RSSL is dedicated to delivering world-class scientific solutions and outstanding customer service.
Recognised for our excellence, we were awarded CRO of the Year at the 2023 OBN Awards, adding to our previous accolades Employer of the Year, Enlightened Employer and Women in Business.
If you are passionate about driving innovation and making a real impact, RSSL is the place for you
Our industrial placements are 13 months long and during this time we'll make you an integral part of the team. We hope to help you expand your horizons and encourage both your personal and professional development.
Life at RSSL
As a Material Sciences placement student at RSSL, you will be responsible and accountable for your projects from start to finish.
For our Material Sciences placements, we will consider the following degrees - Chemistry (and related degrees such as Analytical Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Chemistry), Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Natural Sciences, Physics and Materials Science.
We are looking for students to join the Material Sciences team, who look at physical properties of both food and pharmaceutical products, which are of vital importance in predicting and optimizing quality and behavior during processing and storage. As a student in this area, you will perform a wide range of analyses both with a team and independently on products from the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, as well projects for Mondelez. You will develop expertise in analytical methods and operation of laboratory equipment including Karl Fischer, Malvern Mastersizer, mechanical sieving, and texture analyzers, as well and Microscopy techniques including light microscopy, FT-IR and RAMAN spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray microanalysis and micro fluorescence.
During the placement, you will be expected to plan and execute experiments related to your projects, produce technical reports/presentations, and periodically communicate your key findings to stakeholders. You will also have the opportunity to interact with other departments within RSSL and may also be expected to support other ongoing project activities outside of your immediate team. Where a project is required to be completed as art of your university degree, we will ensure to work with you and your supervisor to find a project which meets the requirements.
Please be aware that this role may require handling of materials that may contain chemicals, solvents and allergens, and the appropriate protective wear will be supplied.
Candidate Requirements
Studying towards a suitable scientific degree (detailed above)
* 2:1 predicted end result - (or equivalent).
* Self-motivated and driven
* Naturally inquisitive and passionate about technical excellence
* Can work with a level of autonomy, as well as within a team
* Demonstrate strong analytical, communication and presentation abilities
* Pro-active and ready to take on new responsibilities
* Able to build strong relationships
* Good working knowledge of MS Office
* Able to travel (if required)
In return for your commitment, drive and enthusiasm, we offer an attractive benefits package within a highly successful international business that offers a competitive salary, 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), contributory pension, life assurance, and a flexible benefits programme.
The assessment center will take place on the 3rd of December 2025 at our Reading site.
We review applications on a first come, first served basis and reserve the right to close our vacancies early - therefore we recommend that you complete and submit your application as soon as possible.
This position does not meet the minimum salary requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Therefore, we are unable to consider applicants who require sponsorship.