People Science Industrial Placement
Help design the future of work through data, technology and behavioural insight, partnering with senior stakeholders and building skills that will last your entire career.

Big organisation. Bigger playground.
When it comes to shaping how one of the UK’s largest organisations works, traditional HR can only take us so far. We need data that leaves no room for guesswork, technology that keeps people and processes connected, and strategy that’s born out of insight. Technology that keeps people and processes connected. And strategy that’s born out of insight. Exactly what our People & Places teams do every single day.
On the People Science Industrial Placement, you will be at the centre of it all. This is a chance for you to get your hands dirty – as you understand the inner workings of a complex organisation, take on real work and full ownership.
One year. Lasting impact.
Here, you won’t be shaping your future on your own. Over the year, you’ll become part of a broader community of placement students across the business – developing together through workshops, collaboration and connections that last. Throughout it all, you can expect to:
- Own real projects from day one – and see them through from start to finish
- Build specialist know-how in one area that sets you apart
- Learn from the best as you collaborate with senior colleagues on live projects
- Add a unique blend of practical skills to your arsenal – spanning problem solving, data, insight, design, influencing others and technology
- Engage with stakeholders across the business beyond your day-to-day

Skills that never leave your side
By the end of the programme, you’ll have developed skills that go beyond the classroom.
These include:
- Practical experience with data and analytics
- The ability to solve problems creatively through experimentation
- The confidence to manage stakeholders and bring people with you
- Digital and design-first thinking that makes work better

Opportunities that make you shine
Get seen by those who can help you go further:
- Collaborate closely with those who have been there, done that
- Get visibility and exposure as you engage with people from across the board
- Decode how decisions are made in an organisation of this size
The best part? If you show us what you can do, this placement could become the first step towards a future graduate role with us.

Requirements
- Be in your penultimate year at university.
- Be a problem solver who brings a STEM mindset, using data and logic while staying curious about people and how organisations work
- While we do not require a set minimum degree level, we highly recommend the ability to demonstrate sound knowledge, comprehension and technical skills aligned to the role. Some aspects of this will be assessed through the application process.
- Note: We cannot sponsor visas.
This programme operates in Edinburgh and Leeds.
You’ll choose one of these regional locations and will be based in that location for the duration of your programme. We support hybrid working, where you’ll be expected to spend a minimum of two days each week in the office where you have been placed.
Applications for our People Science Industrial Placement open on 10th September and close on 8th November.
Apply soon, as this placement may close early if we receive a high number of applications.
Our application process is designed to help you shine. We want everyone to feel they belong and can be their best, regardless of background, identity, or culture.
Find out more, including stages and tips for success, on the Industrial Placements Application Process page.

