Associate Scientist, ADME and Assay Development Full-time

Associate Scientist

Takeda Research is constructing a Lab of Tomorrow built on AI, automation, new ways of working, and talent with the singular vision of delivering differentiated medicines to the clinic at speed and cost.

The Associate Scientist will play a critical role in supporting ADME based high-throughput mass spectrometry screening and iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) activities across small molecule programs. Operating within fully automated, integrated laboratory systems, this individual will develop and execute robust bioanalytical assays that generate high-quality, decision-enabling data for small molecule discovery. With strong expertise in statistical analysis to assess assay robustness and data quality as the ability to solve problems of moderate scope, 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: Executes and contributes to fully automated, end-to-end ADME 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.
• Cross-Functional Impact: Partners closely with DMPK, medicinal chemistry, data sciences, and early discovery teams to translate assay data into actionable insights, supporting timely and informed advancement of discovery programs.

Accountabilities:

• Develop, miniaturize, optimize, and validate robust high-throughput ADME workflows, with a primary focus on acoustic MS for small molecule biotherapeutic lead profiling.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible ADME data to enable informed decision-making within iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) cycles.
• Design, execute and support design of quantitative and qualitative bioanalytical assays at 384- or 1536-well scale
• Perform and ensure timely execution of ADME assays and communicate results effectively to program teams.
• Identify and troubleshoot up to moderately complex technical issues using established approaches; escalate more complex challenges as needed.
• Apply rigorous statistical analysis, curve fitting, and data visualization tools to interpret complex datasets.
• Utilize automation platforms and laboratory instrumentation to improve assay throughput, consistency, and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including DMPK, medicinal 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).
• May lead discrete assay activities or components of projects.
• Familiarity with LIMS/ELN systems.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of assay workflows, laboratory practices, and documentation.

Education & Competencies (Technical and Behavioral):

• Expected: Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related discipline with 3+years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery (pharma/biotech) OR Bachelor's degree with 5+ years.
• Demonstrated expertise in:
• Developing, miniaturizing and analyzing ADME assays
• Familiarity running high-throughput MS platforms (Acoustic MS, RapidFire MS, MALDI-MS or other platforms)
• Method development, optimization, troubleshooting and routine operation
• Experience working within DMTA-driven discovery workflows.
• Proficiency with MS data analysis tools and software; experience with scripting or data handling (e.g., Python, R, Spotfire) is a plus.
• Familiarity with laboratory automation systems.
• Applies established scientific principles and standard techniques to perform and troubleshoot assays.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proven experience in developing and/or evaluating novel small molecules.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a highly matrixed, cross-functional environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Applies judgment within established procedures to solve problems of moderate scope.
• 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:

Boston, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$103,500.00 – $162,690.00

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.