Junior Method Development Chemist (12 Month Internship)

Role overview

This 12-month internship is based in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk and reports to the Principal Method Development Chemist. The role is centred on laboratory analysis of flavour and fragrance raw materials moving through the quality control process, with a strong focus on fragrance allergen testing so that customers can use products in line with current regulations.

Working pattern

The position is for 40 hours per week and is based onsite in Bury St Edmunds, England, United Kingdom.

About the organisation

The company has been creating flavour solutions since 1886 and serves more than 90 countries with over 3,000 products. It is working toward becoming a key partner for leading flavour and fragrance houses, beverage brands, and consumer brands. The business includes more than 400 international specialists who work together to support customers and drive innovation.

What the role involves

The main purpose of the job is to support analytical work in the laboratory, including allergen quantification, boiling point testing, instrument checks, and other routine technical tasks. The role also includes learning opportunities, team-based work, and involvement in projects as directed by the Principal Method Development Chemist.

Additional duties

• Measure fragrance allergens in products using GCMS-FID so customers can dose them correctly for fragrance applications.
• Carry out boiling point testing to support compliance with REACH requirements.
• Complete routine instrument validation activities and keep the validation records updated.
• Maintain and troubleshoot GCMS instruments and record all maintenance work in the log.
• Prepare standards needed for instrument and method calibration, then perform calibrations and update the calibration logs.
• Carry out daily checks to confirm the laboratory and equipment are ready for use.
• Perform pipette calibration and maintain the associated spreadsheet.
• Support technical projects as assigned by the Principal Method Development Chemist.
• Take part in sensory work, including smell and taste panels, on a daily basis.
• Keep the laboratory clean, organised, and safe, and report any hazards to the relevant senior contacts.
• Escalate equipment faults or issues with analytical procedures to the appropriate manager.
• Protect personal and team health and safety at all times.
• Undertake training in routine analytical methods when required.
• Complete business-specific training as needed.
• Carry out other related tasks as required from time to time.

What the employer is looking for

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in scientific work and be comfortable working in a setting that values progress, teamwork, and commitment. A degree in a science-related subject with chemistry modules is preferred. Prior procedural training is beneficial but not essential, as full training will be provided.

Benefits

The package includes a competitive salary, generous annual leave, the option to buy additional leave, private medical and dental cover, a pension plan, life assurance, and group income protection. The company also supports work-life balance, wellbeing activities, responsibility-based flexibility, community and charity involvement, and subsidised social events.

Notice for agencies

The employer has requested that recruitment agencies do not make contact, as it works from a preferred supplier list and receives a high volume of speculative calls.