Senior Director, AIRx Biologics Discovery Lead

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 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.

About the role

As AIRx Biologics Discovery Lead, 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. This role integrates AI-enabled protein design, internal or externalized wet lab execution with state-of-the-art platforms, and a direct line to governance. You will work with highly experienced leaders with a 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 by integrating AI/ML-based biologics discovery, automated high-throughput platforms, and a deep understanding of CMC as well as the pharmacology of biologics drugs. A proven track record of leading at least 2 biologic discovery programs to clinic is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead biologics discovery for multiple programs from target and modality selection through candidate nomination, preclinical development transition, and IND filing.
• Establish and execute discovery strategies across antibodies, bispecifics, fusion proteins, and emerging modalities with clear CMC and clinical line-of-sight.
• Embed AI-driven protein design, computational modeling, and high-throughput experimental platforms to accelerate cycle times and improve design quality.
• 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.
• Lead sequence optimization, affinity maturation, Fc engineering, and developability optimization through integrated computational and experimental approaches.
• Oversee CROs/CDMOs to ensure delivery of high-quality, decision-ready data on aggressive timelines.
• Represent AIRx externally; assess platform technologies, novel modalities, and serve as a business development subject matter expert evaluating external assets.
• Deliver biologics discovery with disciplined cost stewardship while contributing to a sustainable pipeline of biologics INDs.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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 (e.g., RFdiffusion, ProteinMPNN, ESMFold, AlphaFold) 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 toward 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 in strategic partnerships with CROs and CDMOs for biologics; strong business acumen including regulatory (BLA/MAA pathway) and commercial awareness.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Basic life insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Paid volunteer time off.
• Company holidays.
• Well-being benefits.
• Up to 80 hours of sick time per calendar year.
• New hires eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.
• Eligibility for short-term and/or long-term incentives.

Pay

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, 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.

Schedule

This position is currently classified as “hybrid” by Takeda’s Hybrid and Remote Work policy.

Location: Cambridge, MA. Full-time, exempt position.