CPI helps make great ideas and inventions a reality. We’re a team of intelligent people using advances in science and technology to solve the biggest global challenges in healthcare and sustainability.
Through our incredible people and innovation infrastructure, we collaborate with our partners in industry, academia, government, and the investment community to accelerate the development and commercialisation of innovative products.
From health technologies and pharmaceuticals to sustainable food and materials innovations, we turn the entrepreneurial spirit and radical thinking of our people and partners into incredible impact that makes our world a better place.
CPI have an exciting Placement Student opportunity available for an individual working towards a degree in science or engineering disciplines to join the Automation & Digital team within Formulation. You'll be based at our state of the art National Formulation Centre in Sedgefield to support various crucial and exciting projects.
Through the development of innovative approaches and processes you could help CPI to solve some of the biggest challenges the industry face. You will have the opportunity to be involved in many varied and exciting projects (from lab scale right through to pilot scale) using processes to help make products which are more sustainable and environmentally responsible.
Due to CPI's collaborative nature, this opportunity will provide you with experience of working across multidisciplinary teams within the Formulation technology team. Your contribution will help CPI support the UK in achieving its Net Zero targets and make the world a healthier place!
Within the Automation & Digital team you will be responsible for the handling and maintenance of numerous automated systems designed to aid high throughput activities. This work involves collaborating across teams to translate traditional laboratory processes into streamlined, digitally enabled continuous manufacturing techniques. You will also have opportunities to develop digital expertise by implementing smart technologies, data analytics, and process control solutions that drive innovation and efficiency in modern science.
Candidates will be educated to A-Level (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Biologics, or a related subject and studying towards a degree in one of the above disciplines or a related area. It would be advantageous if candidates had some experience in a chemistry, engineering or digital environment.
Applicants should be enthusiastic, have effective interpersonal skills and be willing to learn to gain hands on/practical experience. The ideal candidates will be committed to and actively seek opportunities to develop themselves within these new and exciting roles.
You will have demonstrable skills in technical problem solving, with the ability to demonstrate evidence of knowledge sharing and network-building practice across teams or groups. You will be able to apply your own judgement and initiative to the role, as well as an understanding of when to seek advice from colleagues.
This position would suit students whose course includes a sandwich year in industry, or those able to take a placement opportunity in industry between academic years.
Please note this is a 12-month fixed-term role, commencing July 2026.
We cannot offer sponsorship for this role.
At CPI, we offer a wide range of benefits to our employees, this includes:
Up to 36 days holiday, including bank holidays – Plus a holiday purchasing scheme
Generous pension scheme
Life assurance and accident insurance schemes
Flexible working
Learning and Development Opportunities
Free parking
Find out more about our culture and benefits.