Associate Scientist, Cellular Lead Profiling (Automation)

Takeda•Boston, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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

Responsibilities

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).