Scientist I, Investigative Toxicology

Takeda • Boston, MA

4d

About The Position

The Scientist I, Investigative Toxicology develops and delivers automated in vitro and AI/ML toxicology models to support safer, more effective medicines and accelerate drug candidates toward IND. The role is part of Takeda’s Global Investigative Toxicology team, which conducts in vitro and in silico work to detect and de-risk toxicity across the drug portfolio. The scientist generates decision-making data through screening strategies and safety assessments, conducts cell-based assays, and develops novel in vitro model systems. The position also integrates AI/ML approaches with investigative toxicology and collaborates with pharmacology, DMPK, bioinformatics, automation, and technology teams.

Requirements

• Ph.D. with 0–1 years, MS with 6+ years, or BS with 8+ years of experience in biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• Experience using AI/ML tools to facilitate in vitro data analysis.
• Experience working in a matrixed team environment at a pharmaceutical company and/or CRO.
• Basic experience with molecular biology techniques, including RNA/DNA extraction, qPCR, and western blot.
• Broad scientific knowledge in molecular and cellular biology, immunology, pharmacology, or toxicology.
• Expertise in standard aseptic cell culture techniques, including culturing various cell types.
• Broad experience with cell-based functional assays.
• Self-motivated, with strong time-management and organizational skills.
• Ability to balance multiple projects and remain flexible as priorities change.
• Highly collaborative, with excellent oral and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience culturing and differentiating primary cells.
• Experience with R, Python, and other coding languages.
• Experience with cell transfection/transduction, imaging, and flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

• Use AI/ML to develop, design, execute, and interpret in vitro cell-based assays to characterize mechanisms of toxicity, particularly for oncology, neuroscience, and GI therapeutics.
• Culture immortalized cancer cell lines and human primary cells using manual and automated techniques.
• Prepare experimental protocols, analyze experimental data, and present study results at team and department meetings.
• Facilitate integration of AI/ML within investigative toxicology and with collaborators in pharmacology, DMPK, and bioinformatics.
• Use automated platforms to run established screening assays and prioritize assets based on safety.
• Partner with automation and technology teams to develop innovative, efficient assay approaches using advanced techniques.
• Initiate experimental approaches to address specific problems using scientific theory and technical literature.
• Analyze and interpret results using defined practices and theoretical knowledge, and determine appropriate actions.
• Use relevant information, technology, and resources to contribute to complex team problem-solving and objectives.
• Prepare and present technical or project reports and formal presentations or posters to internal and external audiences.
• Follow good documentation practices.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level