Head, AIRx Biologics Discovery

Job description

Head Of Airx Biologics Discovery

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. To catalyze these efforts, Takeda is creating two complementary units: AI Research Accelerator (AIRx) and Discovery Automation & Robotics (DAR).

AIRx will have a group of a dedicated group of experienced biologic drug hunters with the autonomy of a biotech and the resources of a leading pharmaceutical company. It is designed to incubate the future AI-powered operating models for large molecule discovery and deliver candidates to the clinic at industry leading speed and success rates.

As the Head of AIRx Biologics Discovery, you will lead the end-to-end biologics discovery from lead generation, optimization to final candidate selection of 2–3 large molecule discovery programs within a unit deliberately designed to remove the structural overhead that slows programs down in large pharma. AI-enabled protein design, internal or externalized wet lab execution with state of Art platforms, and a direct line to governance: this is the environment elite biologic drug hunters have been waiting for.

You will work with highly experienced leaders with proven track record of delivering multiple large molecule INDs, top computational protein scientists, AI/ML specialists, CMC partners and translational biology experts in a model where the science, not the governance calendar, drives the pace and progress. This is a role for a leader who knows how to deliver speed and innovation integrating AI/ML based biologics discovery, automated high throughput platforms with deep understanding of CMC as well as pharmacology of biologics drugs.

A proven track record of leading at least 2 biologic discovery programs to clinic is required.

Key Accountabilities

Lead Biologics Discovery: Drive biologics discovery for multiple programs from target and modality selection through candidate nomination, preclinical development transition, and IND filing

Discovery strategy and implementation: Establish and execute discovery strategies across antibodies, bispecifics, fusion proteins, and emerging modalities with clear CMC and clinical line-of-sight

Integrate AI and automation: Embed AI-driven protein design, computational modeling, and high-throughput experimental platforms to accelerate cycle times and improve design quality

Enable decision-making: Evaluate and prioritize biologic candidates based on scientific, clinical, CMC, and commercial considerations; balance potency, selectivity, half-life, immunogenicity risk, and expression yield in go/no-go decisions

Optimize molecules: Lead sequence optimization, affinity maturation, Fc engineering, and developability optimization through integrated computational and experimental approaches

Manage external execution: Oversee CROs/CDMOs to ensure delivery of high-quality, decision-ready data on aggressive timelines

External engagement: Represent AIRx externally; assess platform technologies, novel modalities, and serve as BD subject matter expert evaluating external assets

Portfolio impact: Deliver biologics discovery with disciplined cost stewardship while contributing to a sustainable pipeline of biologics INDs

Qualifications & Competencies

Advanced degree in protein biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, immunology, or related life sciences (PhD, MD, or DVM); PhD strongly preferred

15+ years of industry experience with deep subject matter expertise in biologic drug discovery; at least 10 years in scientific leadership roles within large molecule programs

Proven track record leading 5+ biologic programs across discovery from target inception to Candidate Nomination or beyond; minimum 2 biologic INDs required (antibody, bispecific, or fusion protein programs preferred)

Deep knowledge of the biologic drug discovery and development process: target identification, discovery campaign strategies (yeast display, hybridoma, single B cell), lead optimization, developability assessment, and IND-enabling CMC and toxicology activities

Strong expertise in protein engineering principles: affinity maturation, CDR optimization, Fc engineering, bispecific/multispecific antibody formats, linker design, and fusion protein architecture

Strong AI/ML fluency and digital-forward scientific mindset; hands-on experience integrating generative protein design tools and ML-guided sequence optimization into biologics discovery workflows

Solid understanding of large molecule DMPK: FcRn-mediated recycling, half-life extension strategies, subcutaneous absorption, immunogenicity risk assessment, and PK/PD modeling for dose projection

Strong understanding of biologic CMC considerations: expression systems (CHO, HEK), purification, analytical characterization, developability studies and early formulation development as inputs to candidate selection

Excellent and inclusive leadership; able to inspire cross-functional protein engineering, biology, and translational teams towards ambitious goals

Exceptional communication skills; able to convey complex large molecule science to senior governance audiences and distill developability trade-offs into clear strategic recommendations

Demonstrated success of strategic partnerships with CRO and CDMOs for biologics; strong business acumen including regulatory (BLA/MAA pathway) and commercial awareness

The position will be based in Cambridge, MA. This position is currently classified as "hybrid" by Takeda's Hybrid and Remote Work policy.

What's Different About This Role

Biotech-like autonomy with big pharma scale

AI-native biologics discovery environment

Streamlined governance with rapid decision-making

Direct impact on future operating models in R&D

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: $212,000.00 - $333,190.00

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.

For information about our benefits, please click here.

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.

Worksite address

boston, MA, 02298, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.