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  4. Industrial Placement Student 2026
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Croda is a FTSE100 organisation driven around our purpose of Smart Science to Improve Lives™. With over 6,000 employees across 39 countries, we are focused on the research and development of novel and highly sustainable raw materials for the Life Sciences and Consumer Care sectors.

We are passionate and excited about how we can develop and utilise new technologies to shape and inspire changes within an ever-growing marketplace. As our business looks to deliver its ambitious strategy of growth, we are looking for an Industrial Placement Student to join our Research & Technology Biopolymers synthesis team at Croda Ditton, Cheshire for 12 months from August 2026, working on the research and development of global projects across our Life Sciences and Consumer Care businesses.

You will be responsible for the development of novel functional ingredients from natural polymers for use in applications across Hair Care, Sun Care and Agricultural applications. There will be significant opportunities to make decisions within individual projects and duties will include practical laboratory work, problem solving, organisation and report writing. The project work carried out during the placement will be of sufficient academic complexity to meet the requirements of a university industrial placement degree course.

Who we’re looking for

At Croda, we believe our people are the heart of our success. We are committed to fostering an environment where you can grow, make a meaningful impact, and thrive.

  • You should have good laboratory skills and be able to communicate effectively both in reports and verbally.
  • You will need to be a self-motivated individual with the ability to manage and plan your own workload.
  • Team work, attention to detail and good problem analysis skill are essential for this role.
  • You will have an A Level in Chemistry and be working toward a 2.1 in a Chemistry or related degree.
  • Previous work experience within the chemical industry is desirable but not essential

What you’ll be doing

Be part of a team that values diversity, sustainability, and continuous innovation, where your ideas and contributions matter.

  • Conduct the design and synthesis of protein and carbohydrate-based materials for consumer care and life sciences applications.
  • Focus on synthesis and process optimising (from lab to scale-up)
  • Complete routine characterisations such as GPC and HPLC.
  • Collaborate with applications team to evaluate the performance profile of new ingredients developed.
  • Write up technical reports for internal use.
  • Present regular project updates to team members and other stakeholders.

What we offer

Join a global organisation with countless opportunities for growth and leadership.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:

  • Defined benefit pension scheme
  • 25 days paid holiday allowance (plus bank holidays)
  • Private medical insurance
  • Access to share plans
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Car leasing scheme
  • Generous parental leave
  • Retail platform benefits
  • Free car parking on Croda sites