Associate Scientist, High-Throughput Mass Spectrometry (Automation)

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Job Description

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 high-throughput mass spectrometry screening and iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) activities across small and large 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 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 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 MS workflows, with a primary focus on acoustic MS, RapidFire MS, MALDI-MS or similar platforms for small and large molecule biotherapeutic lead profiling.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible data to enable informed decision-making within iterative Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) cycles.
• Design and execute quantitative and qualitative bioanalytical assays at 384- or 1536-well scale
• Perform and ensure timely execution of MS detection assays and communicate results effectively to program teams.
• 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).
• Familiarity with LIMS/ELN systems.

Education & Competencies (Technical and Behavioral):

• Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences 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:
  • 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.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proven experience in developing and/or evaluating novel small molecule and biologics.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a highly matrixed, cross-functional environment while managing multiple priorities.
• 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.

Locations

Boston, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Job Exempt

Yes

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.