Analytical Development Synthetic Molecules Characterization Scientist
Takeda
Summary
The Scientist Analytical Development – Synthetic Molecules Characterization is responsible for leading scientific and technical work within Analytical Development, with a strong focus on the characterization of synthetic molecules, including peptides and PROTACs. In this role, you will support the transition of novel compounds from Discovery into Development and into first-in-human clinical studies. You will also contribute to ongoing research across the development lifecycle, with emphasis on salt and polymorph screening, solid-state analytics, and analytical method development for Drug Substance and Drug Product.
Job description
How you will contribute:
- Independently design, plan, and execute studies to define the physicochemical properties and behavior of new development candidates that support lead candidate selection and downstream Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls development.
- Lead and contribute to solid-state screening activities, including salt and polymorph.
- Drive physicochemical profiling efforts and analytical method development for Drug Substance and Drug Product.
- Develop fit-for-purpose chromatographic methods for analysis.
- Work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Drug Safety, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Process Chemistry, Formulation Development, and Late Phase Analytical Development to support project goals.
- Provide technical leadership within projects and support strategy development across projects and functions.
- Serve as a technical expert and mentor for junior team members when needed.
- Integrate scientific and technical work across functions to address project issues and support solutions.
- Plan and implement resolutions to technical problems and support local technical or process initiatives.
- Author technical reports and contribute to regulatory filings.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutics, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or a related pharmaceutical science, with 8 or more years of relevant industry experience; or Master’s degree in Pharmaceutics, physical organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, or a related pharmaceutical science, with 6 or more years of relevant industry experience; or PhD in a relevant discipline with no minimum industry experience.
- Strong understanding of polymorphism and solid-state screening techniques.
- Strong understanding of solid-state analytical techniques, including X-ray powder diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic vapor sorption, microscopy, and spectroscopic analysis.
- Strong understanding of analytical method development, including high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, Karl Fischer, and dissolution testing.
- Hands-on experience in multiple analytical techniques, along with strong knowledge of analytical theory, and proven ability to work in a Good Manufacturing Practice laboratory setting.
- Ability to troubleshoot complex scientific and technical issues, identify root causes, and implement practical solutions.
- Experience working in highly cross-functional teams and sharing knowledge across groups.
- Strong technical writing skills for internal documents and regulatory support.
- Ability to organize work, manage priorities, and handle multiple tasks within project timelines.
- Experience working with external vendors and internal resources to support project needs.
- Knowledge of modalities beyond traditional small molecules, such as peptides and PROTACs, and familiarity with in silico predictive tools and modeling is highly valued.
Travel requirement: May require approximately 5-10% travel.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutics, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or a related pharmaceutical science, with 8 or more years of relevant industry experience; or Master’s degree in Pharmaceutics, physical organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, or a related pharmaceutical science, with 6 or more years of relevant industry experience; or PhD in a relevant discipline with no minimum industry experience.
- Strong understanding of polymorphism and solid-state screening techniques.
- Strong understanding of solid-state analytical techniques, including X-ray powder diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic vapor sorption, microscopy, and spectroscopic analysis.
- Strong understanding of analytical method development, including high-performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, Karl Fischer, and dissolution testing.
- Hands-on experience in multiple analytical techniques, along with strong knowledge of analytical theory, and proven ability to work in a Good Manufacturing Practice laboratory setting.
- Ability to troubleshoot complex scientific and technical issues, identify root causes, and implement practical solutions.
- Experience working in highly cross-functional teams and sharing knowledge across groups.
- Strong technical writing skills for internal documents and regulatory support.
- Ability to organize work, manage priorities, and handle multiple tasks within project timelines.
- Experience working with external vendors and internal resources to support project needs.
- Knowledge of modalities beyond traditional small molecules, such as peptides and PROTACs, and familiarity with in silico predictive tools and modeling is highly valued.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- 401(k) Matching
- Paid Time Off
Company overview
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a Japanese multinational pharmaceutical company founded in 1781 and incorporated in 1925. As one of the world's top 20 largest pharmaceutical companies by revenue and the third largest in Asia, Takeda specializes in developing and commercializing innovative medicines across several therapeutic areas including oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience, gastroenterology, plasma-derived therapies, and vaccines. With approximately 49,095 employees globally, the company operates research and development centers, manufacturing facilities, and commercial operations across 39 U.S. states and numerous countries worldwide. Takeda maintains dual headquarters in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan, with significant operations in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where it serves as the largest life sciences employer in the state. The company's patient-focused approach is guided by its Takeda-ism values of Integrity, Fairness, Honesty, and Perseverance, emphasizing a commitment to delivering life-transforming treatments while advancing sustainable healthcare solutions. Takeda's extensive portfolio includes both innovative biologics and small molecule drugs, supported by strategic acquisitions and partnerships that have expanded its capabilities in areas such as immuno-oncology and rare disease treatments.