Associate Scientist, Global Sample Management
Takeda
Summary
The Associate Scientist, Global Sample Management team plays a pivotal role in supporting Takeda's research and development efforts by ensuring the integrity, availability, traceability, and precise handling of research samples critical to drug discovery. This role maintains accurate compound and sample data, designs and executes automated sample management workflows, and leverages laboratory automation and informatics systems to deliver high-quality research materials.
Job description
How you will contribute
- Independently design, plan, execute, analyze, and report basic and complex biologics characterization experiments under general direction.
- Independently plan and execute preparation of research samples using sample storage, liquid-handling, and laboratory automation systems including HighRes Biosolutions, Beckman Coulter, Tecan, Hamilton, Thermo Fisher, Agilent, Azenta, SPT Labtech, and Dynamic Devices.
- Serve as a technical resource for sample management LIMS and associated workflows, including compound registration, inventory management, order fulfillment, labware configuration, and integration with downstream automation systems.
- Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and traceability of newly received compounds and samples prior to LIMS registration and inventory updates.
- Coordinate plate preparation and aliquoting processes to ensure timely and reliable availability of research samples.
- Troubleshoot complex automation, software, and sample-processing issues and implement solutions that improve workflow reliability, throughput, and quality.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities to increase automation, standardization, operational efficiency, sample quality, and system reliability.
- Summarize and present technical work, project outcomes, and recommendations within the department and to broader R&D audiences.
What you bring to Takeda
- MS in a scientific, engineering, automation, or related discipline with 3+ years of relevant experience, or BS with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Demonstrated experience designing workflows and programming methods for robotic sample storage, liquid-handling, and laboratory automation systems.
- Conducts basic DNA/RNA extraction and PCR, understanding the significance of gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing.
- Understands and applies basic cell culture techniques with supervision.
- Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of Sample Management processes, applications, equipment, data integrity, and sample traceability.
- Experience integrating laboratory automation platforms with scheduling, orchestration, and data management systems.
- Operates Flow Cytometry for basic assays under close supervision.
- Mentors junior colleagues and interns and provides end-user training on software tools, workflows, and laboratory equipment.
- Independently identifies opportunities for continuous improvement and designs or modifies workflows to improve efficiency, reliability, and scalability.
- Demonstrates strong cross-functional communication skills and the ability to translate scientific requirements into practical sample management and automation solutions.
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills, including the ability to troubleshoot technical issues, propose practical solutions, and escalate risks appropriately.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary team environment.
Requirements
- MS in a scientific, engineering, automation, or related discipline with 3+ years of relevant experience, or BS with 5+ years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated experience designing workflows and programming methods for robotic sample storage, liquid-handling, and laboratory automation systems
- Conducts basic DNA/RNA extraction and PCR, understanding the significance of gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing
- Understands and applies basic cell culture techniques with supervision
- Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of Sample Management processes, applications, equipment, data integrity, and sample traceability
- Experience integrating laboratory automation platforms with scheduling, orchestration, and data management systems
- Operates Flow Cytometry for basic assays under close supervision
- Mentors junior colleagues and interns and provides end-user training on software tools, workflows, and laboratory equipment
- Independently identifies opportunities for continuous improvement and designs or modifies workflows to improve efficiency, reliability, and scalability across platforms
- Demonstrates strong cross-functional communication skills and the ability to translate scientific requirements into practical sample management and automation solutions
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills, including the ability to troubleshoot technical issues, propose practical solutions, and escalate risks appropriately
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a multidisciplinary team environment
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.