Senior Research Associate, Cell Therapies Process Development Automation Digital Technologies

Company: Initial Therapeutics, Inc.
Location: Boston
Posted on: April 4, 2025

Job Description:

By clicking the "Apply" button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda's and . I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge.Job DescriptionAbout the role:At Takeda, we are a forward-looking, world-class R&D organization that unlocks innovation and delivers transformative therapies to patients. By focusing R&D efforts on four therapeutic areas and other targeted investments, we push the boundaries of what is possible in order to bring life-changing therapies to patients worldwide.As Senior Research Associate within the Cell Line Development Group of the Cell Therapy Science team, you will play a critical role in advancing cell-based therapeutic programs by supporting the development and optimization of stable producer cell lines for viral vector production.This position involves interfacing with automated cell processing equipment for viral vector production, performing a range of analytical assays, and conducting data analysis to inform process improvements and decision-making. The role also includes preparing study protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documentation to ensure clear communication and seamless handoffs across functions. You will be expected to present experimental results and project updates in departmental meetings and contribute to collaborative efforts aimed at accelerating the development of innovative cell therapy products.How you will contribute:

• Perform and maintain routine cell culture work, including expansion, maintenance, and banking of mammalian cell lines.
• Conduct analytical assays to support cell line development, including viral titer assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, and vector copy number (VCN) assays.
• Operate and interface with laboratory automation systems and equipment to increase throughput and consistency in cell processing and assay execution.
• Independently design, plan, and execute experiments to support process development goals, including appropriate controls and replicates.
• Review, interpret, and summarize experimental data; draw conclusions and recommend next steps.
• Prepare and present data in departmental meetings and contribute to scientific discussions.
• Draft and revise study protocols, technical reports, and technology transfer documentation.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of lab work in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and other record-keeping systems.
• Coordinate and schedule lab activities efficiently to meet project timelines.
• Manage reagent and consumable inventory by placing orders, tracking usage, and ensuring availability of critical supplies.
• Interact and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including the Analytical team, Automation team, and Viral Vector Production team, to support project goals and technology integration.
• Preferred: experience or background in cell therapy, including knowledge of gene-modified cell products, viral vector production, or producer cell line development.Minimum Requirements/Qualifications:Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, engineering, or related pharmaceutical science; 2+ years relevant industry experience.
  • Master's degree or advanced degree in biology, engineering, or related pharmaceutical science.
  • Previous experience working in lab setting, benefit to have experience with cell therapy.Technical Requirements:
    • Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture techniques, including aseptic technique, passaging, and cryopreservation.
    • Proficiency in performing analytical assays such as viral titer assays, ELISA, flow cytometry, and vector copy number (VCN) assays (e.g., qPCR or ddPCR).
    • Familiarity with interfacing and operating laboratory automation platforms and automated cell processing equipment.
    • Strong understanding of experimental design, assay development, and data interpretation in a biological research or bioprocessing context.
    • Competency in data analysis and visualization using software such as GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, or equivalent.
    • Proficient in using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and standard data documentation practices.
    • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experiments and optimize protocols independently.
    • Working knowledge of molecular and cell biology principles relevant to cell line development and cell therapy.
    • Experience preparing scientific reports, protocols, and presentations.
    • Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
    • Preferred: experience or background in cell therapy, including knowledge of gene-modified cell products, viral vector production, or producer cell line development.More about us:At Takeda, we are transforming patient care through the development of novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best-in-class patient support programs. Takeda is a patient-focused company that will inspire and empower you to grow through life-changing work.Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary:We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.For Location:Boston, MAU.S. Base Salary Range:$84,000.00 - $132,000.00The 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 for the position, 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. The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location.U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/or long-term incentives. U.S. based employees may be eligible to participate in 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, per calendar year, 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 other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.Locations:Boston, MAWorker Type:EmployeeWorker Sub-Type:RegularTime Type:Full timeJob Exempt:YesIt 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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Keywords: Initial Therapeutics, Inc., Boston , Senior Research Associate, Cell Therapies Process Development Automation Digital Technologies, IT / Software / Systems , Boston, Massachusetts