Global Therapeutic Research Lead, Oncology
Are you a biotech or pharma executive ready to shape the future of oncology drug discovery? Join Takeda’s ODDU Leadership Team to drive AI‑powered innovation and deliver transformative medicines to patients worldwide. As a member of the Oncology Drug Discovery Unit (ODDU) Leadership Team, you will set the vision for next‑generation oncology discovery, lead high‑impact project teams, and represent Takeda at the highest levels—internally and externally. You will champion the integration of AI / ML‑driven approaches and future‑forward ways of working, ensuring ODDU remains at the forefront of scientific innovation and patient impact.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
- Lead discovery programs to clinic, driving Research’s most promising projects to the clinic and serving as the cross‑functional team leader.
- Guide and execute the vision and strategy for ODDU, leveraging AI / ML and digital innovation to accelerate discovery and development.
- Mentor and develop the next generation of project team leaders, playing a visible role in global Research initiatives.
- Act as a visible leader and ambassador for Takeda, representing the organization with external partners, at scientific conferences, and in industry forums.
Who You Are
Visionary leader with a track record as an experienced ‘drug hunter’ in biotech or large pharma.Ph.D. or equivalent in life sciences; 15+ years of experience in drug discovery and preclinical development.Proven ability to advance programs from discovery to IND and beyond, with major contributions to at least 3 INDs.Deep expertise in oncology and broad experience across multiple therapeutic areas.Recognized for building high‑performing teams, driving innovation, and delivering results in complex, matrixed environments.Passionate about emerging technologies and AI / ML‑driven drug discovery.Outstanding communicator and external influencer.Program & Portfolio Leadership
Oversee drug discovery and development programs with a connected view of the project disease‑area strategy and treatment paradigm.Advance promising molecules—engineered by AI / ML‑driven platforms—through development candidate stage gates and lead IND‑enabling activities.Manage multiple external partnerships that accelerate delivery of the project in partnership with a Global Project Lead following candidate selection.Establish smart, fast, and critical‑path‑mindful practices for groups, integrating new strategies and competitive industry ways of working.Advise on the continuous infusion of new research projects aligned to strategy to generate a sustainable research engine producing high‑quality INDs every year.Cross‑Functional & External Collaboration
Drive collaboration with Protein Sciences, Early‑stage Biology, Therapeutic Assay Sciences, and Clinical Development.Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners.Represent ODDU and Takeda externally, serving as an ambassador for scientific and business development.Accountabilities
Drive the end‑to‑end drug discovery process for high‑priority oncology programs, from target identification through preclinical development and IND submission.Shape and communicate program strategy, ensuring alignment with internal and external stakeholders.Mentor and develop future leaders, elevating the organization’s scientific and operational capabilities.Ensure scientific excellence, operational rigor, and a culture of innovation across all programs.Represent ODDU and Takeda in high‑level governance, external collaborations, and business development opportunities.Education & Competencies (Technical and Behavioral)
Ph.D. or equivalent in life sciences; 15+ years of experience in drug discovery and preclinical development, with 10+ years in scientific leadership roles.Proven track record of advancing oncology programs from discovery to IND and beyond, with major contributions to at least 3 INDs.Deep expertise in oncology and broad experience across multiple therapeutic areas.Demonstrated ability to build and lead high‑performing teams, drive innovation, and deliver results in complex, matrixed environments.Outstanding communication, external influence, and partnership‑building skills.Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary
We understand that compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees and strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.
Location
Boston, MA
U.S. Base Salary Range
$208,200.00 – $327,140.00
U.S. based employees may be eligible for short‑term and / or long‑term incentives, medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short‑term and long‑term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well‑being benefits, among others. U.S. based employees are also eligible to receive up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.
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 any other characteristic protected by law.
Worker Type
Employee
Worker Sub‑Type
Regular
Time Type
Full time
Job Exempt
Yes
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
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