Scientist I, Investigative Toxicology

Takeda•Boston, MA

6d•$116,000 - $182,270•Onsite

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 candidate safety assessment. The role delivers decision-making data to help progress quality drug candidates to IND. As part of Takeda’s global safety assessment team, the scientist helps detect and de-risk toxicities across the company’s portfolio and supports early safety assessment through screening strategies and cell-based assays. The Global Investigative Toxicology team performs in vitro and in silico work to assess toxicity in drug candidates throughout development. The position focuses on using AI/ML to develop, design, execute, and interpret cell-based assays that characterize toxicity mechanisms, particularly for oncology, neuroscience, and gastrointestinal therapeutics. Work includes tissue culture using immortalized cancer cell lines and human primary cells, applying manual and automated techniques, developing novel in vitro models, and collaborating with automation, technology, pharmacology, DMPK, and bioinformatics teams. The scientist prepares protocols, analyzes data, presents results, documents work appropriately, and contributes to scientific and project decisions.

Requirements

Ph.D. with 0–1 years, M.S. with 6 or more years, or B.S. with 8 or more 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 with standard aseptic cell culture techniques, including culturing various cell types.
Self-motivated, with strong time-management and organizational skills.
Ability to balance multiple projects and remain flexible with changing priorities.
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 or transduction, imaging, and flow cytometry.

Responsibilities

Use AI/ML to develop, design, execute, and interpret in vitro cell-based assays to characterize diverse mechanisms of toxicity, with a focus on 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 in team and department meetings.
Facilitate integration of AI/ML within investigative toxicology and with collaborators, including 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 and apply advanced techniques.
Initiate experimental approaches to 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.