Research Senior Scientist, Antibody Discovery & Engineering, In Vivo Based Methods

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Job Description

About the role:

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.

Join Takeda as a Senior Scientist where you will use state-of-the-art discovery technology and creating novel treatments to make a large impact on patients’ lives in the fields of Oncology, Gastroenterology and Neuroscience. As part of the team, contribution to swift and efficient discovery of biologic therapeutics using in vivo based approaches is the core remit. You will include deep scientific engagement and involvement in programs; defining the best path forward based on the therapeutic needs, designing immunization strategies, performing immunizations/animal handling and tissue harvest, and conducting HT antibody discovery using technologies using single B cell cloning coupled with NGS. You will also necessitate familiarity with associated screening workflows and data analysis in addition to possessing a sound knowledge of B cell biology, humoral immunity and immunoglobulin genetics and familiarity with basic building block biologics IgG, Fab, sdAb, as well as design and optimize lead candidates using display-based technologies (yeast, phage) may also be part of the role. As part of the Biotherapeutic Engineering team, you will report to the Senior Director of the organization and interface very closely with cross functional project team members to make data driven decisions with impact on pipeline is vital. Here, you will recognize, and streamline for the most efficient ways of working is a high priority in this role, which requires tremendous drive, motivation to deliver (and beat) team and program goals, while also pushing the boundaries to enhance discovery and optimization. Working and networking excellently within the team is critical for best performance and team engagement as you will be part of a team of motivated and enthusiastic scientists in the Cambridge, MA location, bringing strong experience in antibody/biologic discovery to the team.

How you will contribute:

• Draw on expertise from antibody discovery to provide and lead thoughtful guidance on strategies towards candidate profiles for differing target types, including discovery and optimization/ engineering approaches to enhance properties.

• Strategize, optimize, and perform B cell separation and refined enrichment techniques for antigen-specific antibody screening that will include plasma and memory B cell sorting (Beacon and FACS based methods). Continually improve single-cell RT-PCR, PCR, molecular cloning, and BCR sequence analysis to best harvest variable antibody regions for expression, NGS and/or repertoire cloning into display platforms, with associated analysis and management of data. Collaborate effectively with high-throughput mammalian expression teams for downstream work, while working with teams to best define overall triage funnels and steps.

• Work closely with NGS discovery team to best strategize and thoughtfully apply NGS based analysis throughout the discovery process and lead for change in establishment of the best feedback loop of discovery/optimization for therapeutics.

• Construct immune based repertoires from animal sources for manipulation in display-based platforms from discovery through optimization.

• Have involvement in design of maturation libraries for display platforms (affinity/ potency/ stability) leveraging datasets, experience, and software to improve lead candidates.

• Manage sequence analysis through state-of-the-art tools for deep understanding and performance of campaigns.

• Work with data analysis tools to ensure thorough evaluation of datasets and information based decision making, in addition to summarize and present findings to smaller and larger teams.

• High level of diligence in all data tracking, uploading and recording using data management systems within the department.

• Oversee and manage workflows with thirds parties and/or CROs where appropriate.

• Serve as an effective point of contact for discovery programs, collaborate and interact with team members and other internal groups for high efficiency and transparency to enable progression of molecules.

• Demonstrate pro-activity through identifying areas to improve efficiency, perform technology development to bring new innovation to the team, where appropriate.

• Independently design, develop and execute research assignments and contribute to multiple projects, in parallel.

• Work efficiently with a sense of urgency to meet program and team needs, setting high standards for effectivness of execution, efficience and rigor of thought.

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications:

• PhD degree in a scientific discipline (or equivalent) with 2+ years relevant experience, or MS with 8+ years relevant experience, or BS with 10+ years relevant experience.

• Excellent experience of in vivo immunization strategies and handling antibody discovery platforms, specifically single B cell cloning, with adeptness in FACS based sorting strategies.

• Excellent knowledge of antibody discovery and engineering, B cell biology, humoral immunity and immunoglobulin genetics.

• Good familiarity with antibody repertoire analysis- NGS data handling and analysis from either in vivo or in vitro sources.

More about us:

At Takeda, we are transforming patient care through the development of novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best in class patient support programs. Takeda is a patient-focused company that will inspire and empower you to grow through life-changing work.

Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.

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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. 

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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.

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