Research Internship in UK at Ferrero
Are you searching for a Research Internship that provides real-world experience in product innovation and food research? Ferrero is offering an exciting Internship in UK within its Research & Development team at the Alfreton site in Derbyshire. This Student Internship provides hands-on experience in food product development, laboratory testing, and industrial validation within a global FMCG company. It is an excellent Internship opportunity for Life Science graduates who want to build a career in research, product innovation, and food technology while working with one of the world’s most recognized food brands.
About the Ferrero
Ferrero is a globally renowned confectionery company known for iconic brands such as Nutella, Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, and Tic Tac. Founded in Italy, Ferrero has grown into one of the largest chocolate and confectionery manufacturers in the world. The company operates in more than 170 countries and is recognized for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability. Through continuous investment in research, product development, and consumer engagement, Ferrero maintains its reputation as a trusted global food brand while providing exciting career opportunities and Food Science Internship programs for emerging professionals.
Internship Details:Â
- Internship Title: Research & Development (R&D) Internship
- Location: Alfreton, Derbyshire, United Kingdom (On-Site)
- Company: Ferrero
- Duration: 12 Months
- Start Date: 1 September 2026
- Job ID: 74427
About the Role
At Ferrero, we create globally loved brands that bring moments of joy to people of all ages. Behind every successful product launch is a dedicated Research & Development (R&D) team turning ideas into reality.
Joining our R&D Internship at our Alfreton site means becoming part of the Technical Development team, supporting innovation across some of our most iconic brands. This internship offers meaningful, hands-on experience within a manufacturing environment, giving you exposure to product creation, validation and industrial scale-up.
You will work closely with Kitchen Developers, Technologists and cross-functional teams to support new product development projects from concept through to launch. Alongside day-to-day responsibilities, you will gain insight into how innovation is developed, tested, validated and brought to life within a global FMCG organisation.
Main Responsibilities
- Assisting the Kitchen Development team in creating product samples and prototypes in preparation for new product launches and concept development
- Supporting laboratory activities including sensory evaluation, shelf-life testing and analytical work
- Working alongside Technologists to support industrial validation trials and continuous improvement initiatives across site
- Contributing to new product development projects across brands, gaining exposure to the full development lifecycle from brief to scale-up
You will collaborate with teams across Production, Quality, Technical and Laboratories, developing a strong understanding of how new concepts are refined, validated for shelf life and storage, and ultimately industrialised.
This role offers practical exposure to food product development, manufacturing validation and cross-functional collaboration within a dynamic production environment.
Who Can Apply?
- Currently studying towards, or have recently completed, a degree-level qualification in Food Science, Food Technology, or a related discipline
- Equivalent experience or alternative academic backgrounds with strong scientific capability are also welcomed
- Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom for the full duration of the 12-month internship at the time of application
Skills Required for Research Internship
- A strong interest in food innovation and product development
- Analytical thinking and attention to detail
- Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
- A proactive approach and willingness to take ownership of learning
Throughout your internship, you will receive structured support and development opportunities to help you build practical R&D skills and gain valuable insight into the full product development process within a global organisation.
Application Instructions
Please ensure that your application includes both your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a Cover Letter.
In your Cover Letter, Ferrero would like to understand:
- What motivates you to apply for this internship
- Why you are interested in building your career within Finance or Marketing at Ferrero
- The skills, experiences or perspectives you would bring to the team
Selection Process For Research Internship
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Screening telephone interviews: March – April 2026
- Online testing: April 2026
- Assessment Centre: April – May 2026
