Digital Internship Opportunity: Food Science Analytical Intern for Beverage Product Development
Reference Number: 306MSSE
Start Date: ASAP
Location: Remote/Hybrid (with potential lab access at partner universities in the UK, such as University of Nottingham or University of Leeds)
Applying for this role: Go to Digital internships in manufacturing | Made Smarter register yourself, once completed, send an email to msasoutheast@surreycc.gov.uk citing the ref and the job you are interested in applying for.
Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated Food Science intern currently pursuing an undergraduate degree or MSc in Food Science, Nutrition, or a related field to support the analytical analysis and development of our flagship product, The Island Tepache. This internship offers hands-on experience in a startup environment, contributing to real-world product testing and refinement. You'll work closely with the Start-up Founder, to ensure The Island Tepache meets high standards for nutritional quality, safety, and compliance. This role is ideal for students interested in fermented foods, analytical chemistry, and beverage innovation.
Key Responsibilities
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Assist in conducting analytical tests on The Island Tepache samples, including quantification of vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C, B vitamins), minerals (e.g., potassium, magnesium), and enzymes (e.g., bromelain and probiotic-related enzymes) using techniques such as HPLC, spectrometry, and enzyme assays.
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Support data collection and interpretation from lab equipment to assess product stability, fermentation profiles, and nutritional content.
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Contribute to the creation and validation of nutritional labels, ensuring compliance with UK/EU regulations (e.g., FSA guidelines on nutrition and health claims).
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Collaborate on product optimization experiments, such as pH monitoring, microbial analysis, and sensory evaluations to enhance flavor and health benefits.
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Prepare reports and presentations on analytical findings, including recommendations for formulation improvements.
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Participate in cross-functional tasks, such as literature reviews on fermented beverage science and coordination with university labs for advanced testing.
Qualifications and Requirements
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Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Food Science, Nutrition, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline (e.g., at a top UK university like University of Leeds, or University of Nottingham).
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Basic knowledge of analytical techniques relevant to food products, such as chromatography, spectroscopy, or enzymatic assays (gained through coursework or prior lab experience).
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Familiarity with food safety standards (e.g., HACCP) and nutritional labeling requirements is a plus.
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Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, basic statistical software like R or SPSS).
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Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup setting.
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Passion for sustainable food innovation and fermented products; prior experience with beverages or probiotics is advantageous but not required.
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Eligibility to work in the UK (visa support not available for this internship).
What We Offer
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Practical experience in food product analysis that directly supports your academic studies and future career in food science.
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Mentorship from industry experts and potential collaboration with leading UK university labs for specialized testing.
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Opportunity to contribute to a growing brand and see your work impact a real product launch.
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Flexible hours to accommodate your studies, with options for remote work on data analysis tasks.
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Networking opportunities within the food tech community and a letter of recommendation upon successful completion.
To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter explaining your interest in The Island Tepache to support@islandtepache.co.uk.