Celebrating BAT’s female scientists

11 February 2019

On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we caught up with some of our female scientists who help us to deliver our Transforming Tobacco ambition.

In this video above you can hear from some of our women scientists based in our Southampton, UK, R&D hub as they talk about their careers in science, and how BAT is helping to support them achieve their full potential.

Jessica Mushonganono, Toxicologist, talks about how she was always interested in science at school and how BAT allows her to grow as a scientist by offering many different development opportunities.

She says: “For any girls considering a career in science, I’d say do it. There are no barriers holding you back and if you’re committed, you can do it.”

Jenni Hawke, Sensory Scientist, talks about how science was always her calling and how BAT is a great place to work if you are interested in science.

She adds: “I still have the opportunity to learn and to grow and for me that is really important. The heart of science for me is curiosity and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

David O’Reilly, Director, Scientific Research, comments:

“We are currently in the most dynamic period of change our industry has ever known. As part of our ambition to lead this change, we have been investing billions in R&D to design a transformational range of potentially reduced-risk alternatives to cigarettes. As we continue on our journey to transform our products, our company and our industry, it has never been a more exciting time to be a scientist at BAT.

“I’m delighted that we’re marking this day by showcasing some of the incredible talent and passion that is helping to fuel our transformation, and I hope that some of the work we are doing can inspire the next generation of women and girls in science.”

Gender diversity is one of the key focus areas of our Diversity & Inclusion agenda at BAT. Following a range of initiatives to improve gender diversity at all levels within the Group, representation of women in senior management has doubled since 2011, reaching 22% in 2018.

Stay tuned in the coming months to hear more about how BAT supports women in STEM – science, technology, engineering and maths.