Senior Research Associate, Cell Therapies Process Development Automation Digital Technologies (PDADT)

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company • Cambridge, MA

283d • $84,000 - $132,000

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 four therapeutic areas and other targeted investments, we push the boundaries of what is possible in order to bring life-changing therapies to patients worldwide. As Senior Research Associate within the Cell Line Development Group of the Cell Therapy Science team, you will play a critical role in advancing cell-based therapeutic programs by supporting the development and optimization of stable producer cell lines for viral vector production. This position involves interfacing with automated cell processing equipment for viral vector production, performing a range of analytical assays, and conducting data analysis to inform process improvements and decision-making. The role also includes preparing study protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documentation to ensure clear communication and seamless handoffs across functions. You will be expected to present experimental results and project updates in departmental meetings and contribute to collaborative efforts aimed at accelerating the development of innovative cell therapy products.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, engineering or related pharmaceutical science; 2+ years relevant industry experience.
• Master's degree or advanced degree in biology, engineering or related pharmaceutical science.
• Previous experience working in lab setting, benefit to have experience with cell therapy.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques, including aseptic technique, passaging, and cryopreservation.
• Proficiency in performing analytical assays such as viral titer assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, and vector copy number (VCN) assays (e.g., qPCR or ddPCR).
• Familiarity with interfacing and operating laboratory automation platforms and automated cell processing equipment.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, assay development, and data interpretation in a biological research or bioprocessing context.
• Competency in data analysis and visualization using software such as GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, or equivalent.
• Proficient in using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and standard data documentation practices.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experiments and optimize protocols independently.
• Working knowledge of molecular and cell biology principles relevant to cell line development and cell therapy.
• Experience preparing scientific reports, protocols, and presentations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or background in cell therapy, including knowledge of gene-modified cell products, viral vector production, or producer cell line development.

Responsibilities

• Perform and maintain routine cell culture work, including expansion, maintenance, and banking of mammalian cell lines.
• Conduct analytical assays to support cell line development, including viral titer assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, and vector copy number (VCN) assays.
• Operate and interface with laboratory automation systems and equipment to increase throughput and consistency in cell processing and assay execution.
• Independently design, plan, and execute experiments to support process development goals, including appropriate controls and replicates.
• Review, interpret, and summarize experimental data; draw conclusions and recommend next steps.
• Prepare and present data in departmental meetings and contribute to scientific discussions.
• Draft and revise study protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documentation.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of lab work in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and other record-keeping systems.
• Coordinate and schedule lab activities efficiently to meet project timelines.
• Manage reagent and consumable inventory by placing orders, tracking usage, and ensuring availability of critical supplies.
• Interact and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including the Analytical team, Automation team and Viral Vector Production team, to support project goals and technology integration.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 401(k) plan and company match
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Basic life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Paid volunteer time off
• Company holidays
• Well-being benefits
• Up to 80 hours of sick time per calendar year
• Accrual of up to 120 hours of paid vacation for new hires

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree