Associate Scientist, Cellular Lead Profiling (Automation)

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Job Description

At Takeda, we are a forward-looking, world-class R&D organization that unlocks innovation and delivers transformative therapies to patients. By focusing R&D efforts on three therapeutic areas and other targeted investments, we push the boundaries of what is possible to bring life-changing therapies to patients worldwide.

Objective / Purpose:

The Associate Scientist will play a critical role in advancing cellular lead profiling and iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) activities across oncology and gastrointestinal disease programs. Operating within fully automated, integrated laboratory systems, this individual will develop and execute robust cell-based assays that generate high-quality, decision-enabling data for small- and large-molecule discovery. With strong expertise in statistical analysis to assess assay robustness and data quality, the Associate Scientist will ensure rigor, reproducibility, and efficiency across programs. Importantly, this role will play a key part in Takeda’s “Lab of the Future” initiative, driving implementation of highly efficient, AI-integrated DMTA cycles that accelerate innovation and enhance data-driven discovery. This role contributes to critical function delivery:

• Accelerates Discovery Through Automation & AI Integration: Implements and operates fully automated, end-to-end assay workflows integrated with AI-enabled analytics to increase throughput, reduce variability, and shorten DMTA cycle times.
• Ensures Data Quality & Scientific Rigor: Applies statistical methodologies to evaluate assay performance (e.g., Z’, variability metrics, curve-fit confidence) and ensures high-integrity data that directly informs compound progression and portfolio decisions.
• Drives Cross-Functional Impact: Partners closely with chemistry, data sciences, and early discovery teams to translate complex cellular data into actionable insights, supporting timely and informed advancement of discovery programs.

Accountabilities:

• Develop, miniaturize, optimize, and validate robust cell-based assays to 384 or 1536 well plate formats to support lead optimization programs across oncology and gastrointestinal disease areas.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible data to enable informed decision-making within iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) cycles.
• Design and execute high-content imaging and multiparametric cellular assays for compound characterization and mechanistic profiling.
• Perform and ensure timely execution of IC50/EC50 determinations and communicate results effectively to program teams.
• Apply rigorous statistical analysis, curve fitting, and data visualization tools to interpret complex cellular datasets.
• Utilize automation platforms and laboratory instrumentation to improve assay throughput, consistency, and efficiency.
• Incorporate AI-enabled tools and advanced software packages where appropriate to enhance data analysis and compound prioritization.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including chemistry, data sciences, and early discovery to drive project progression.
• Interpret, summarize, and present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences as needed.
• Sustain a high-performing and reliable laboratory environment by rigorously applying quality control standards, executing preventative maintenance of instrumentation, and ensuring strict adherence to established standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Education & Competencies (Technical and Behavioral):

• Expected: Master’s degree in in Cell Biology, Immunology, Oncology, Pharmacology, or related discipline with 3+ years OR Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery (pharma/biotech).
• Demonstrated expertise in:
  • Mammalian cell culture (primary cells, engineered lines, co-culture systems, adherent and suspension cells)
  • Cell-based potency assays
  • Dose-response curve generation and IC50/EC50 analysis
  • High-content imaging platforms
• Experience working within DMTA-driven discovery workflows.
• Strong data analysis and curve-fitting skills.
• Familiarity with laboratory automation systems.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proven experience in developing and/or evaluating novel small molecule and biologics
• Stays current with emerging scientific literature, competitive landscapes, and innovative technologies

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• The position will be based in Cambridge, MA.

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. 

For Location:

U.S. Base Salary Range:

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location. 

U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/ or long-term incentives. U.S. based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others. U.S. based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation. 

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

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Job Exempt

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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