Associate Director, Target Discovery Digital Capabilities Strategy

Role Summary

Takeda Research is seeking an experienced and visionary Associate Director to lead the strategic definition and cross-functional coordination of Target Identification and Validation (TidVal) tools and infrastructure. This role will be instrumental in shaping the scientific and digital foundation of TidVal capabilities, ensuring alignment with Takeda’s research priorities and digital transformation goals.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve the strategic roadmap for TidVal tools and infrastructure across Takeda Research.
• Translate scientific needs into actionable tool and infrastructure requirements, ensuring alignment with therapeutic area strategies and research portfolio goals.
• Partner with the Takeda Data and Digital (DD&T) team to co-develop scalable, interoperable, and future-ready TidVal platforms.

• Lead cross-functional coordination across Research functions to gather, prioritize, and implement TidVal requirements.
• Drive stakeholder engagement and alignment across scientific, technical, and operational teams.
• Manage timelines, deliverables, and risk mitigation strategies for TidVal-related initiatives.

• Identify and manage strategic partnerships with external vendors, academic collaborators, and consortia to accelerate TidVal innovation.
• Ensure external tools and platforms integrate effectively with Takeda‚Äôs internal systems and scientific workflows.

• Apply deep knowledge of target identification and validation methodologies, including genomics, proteomics, functional screening, and computational biology.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and scientific advances in TidVal and related domains.
• Contribute to scientific strategy discussions and represent TidVal capabilities in internal governance forums.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, pharmacology, bioinformatics) with 7+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical research.
• Demonstrated expertise in target identification and validation, including hands-on experience with relevant tools and platforms.
• Proven track record in program or project management, preferably in a matrixed R&D environment.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence across levels and functions.
• Experience collaborating with data science, digital, and IT teams to implement research infrastructure.

Education

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, pharmacology, bioinformatics) with 7+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical research.