Associate Director, Target Discovery Digital Capabilities Strategy

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Takeda Research is seeking an experienced and visionary Associate Director to lead the strategic definition and cross-functional coordination of Target Identification and Validation (Tid Val) tools and infrastructure. This role will be instrumental in shaping the scientific and digital foundation of Tid Val capabilities, ensuring alignment with Takeda’s research priorities and digital transformation goals.

Strategic Leadership

• Define and evolve the strategic roadmap for Tid Val tools and infrastructure across Takeda Research.
• Translate scientific needs into actionable tool and infrastructure requirements, ensuring alignment with therapeutic area strategies and research portfolio goals.
• Partner with the Takeda Data and Digital (DDT) team to co-develop scalable, interoperable, and future-ready Tid Val platforms.

Cross-Functional Program Management

• Lead cross-functional coordination across Research functions to gather, prioritize, and implement Tid Val requirements.
• Drive stakeholder engagement and alignment across scientific, technical, and operational teams.
• Manage timelines, deliverables, and risk mitigation strategies for Tid Val-related initiatives.

External Collaboration

• Identify and manage strategic partnerships with external vendors, academic collaborators, and consortia to accelerate Tid Val innovation.
• Ensure external tools and platforms integrate effectively with Takeda’s internal systems and scientific workflows.

Scientific and Technical Expertise

• Apply deep knowledge of target identification and validation methodologies, including genomics, proteomics, functional screening, and computational biology.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and scientific advances in Tid Val and related domains.
• Contribute to scientific strategy discussions and represent Tid Val capabilities in internal governance forums.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, pharmacology, bioinformatics) with 7+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical research.
• Demonstrated expertise in target identification and validation, including hands-on experience with relevant tools and platforms.
• Proven track record in program or project management, preferably in a matrixed R&D environment.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence across levels and functions.
• Experience collaborating with data science, digital, and IT teams to implement research infrastructure.

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: $ - $

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…