Job Description

Join our QC Microbiology team for a hands‑on student placement that offers real laboratory experience in a professional, fast‑paced environment. You will support routine microbiological testing, sample preparation, and accurate data documentation while learning industry standards for safety, quality, and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
This placement provides valuable exposure to microbiology workflows, practical skill development, and mentoring to help you grow your career in microbiology, food science, biotechnology, or related fields.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine microbiological testing of food and environmental samples using approved methods and aseptic techniques.
• Prepare culture media, reagents, and laboratory consumables.
• Carry out basic laboratory techniques including plating, colony counting, Gram staining, and microscopy.
• Support environmental monitoring, water analysis, and product testing activities.
• Record data and results accurately in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.
• Follow GLP, Health & Safety requirements, and all relevant quality standards.
• Assist with investigations, audits, or research activities under supervision.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and compliant laboratory workspace.

Essential Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a BSc or MSc programme in Microbiology, Food Technology, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Eligible to complete a student placement as part of your university curriculum.
• Basic understanding of microbiology principles and laboratory techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Eagerness to learn and ability to follow procedures consistently.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Previous laboratory experience (academic or placement-based).
• Familiarity with GLP, GMP, or regulated laboratory environments.
• Experience with microscopy or microbial culture techniques.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office and/or laboratory information systems (LIMS).

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more