Head of Automated Small Molecule Synthesis

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the automation strategy for small-molecule synthesis to align with the Lab of the Future roadmap.
• Establish a closed-loop DMTA vision by integrating robotics, digital data capture, and AI/ML to boost synthesis throughput.
• Design end-to-end automated workflows for reaction scouting, parallel synthesis, scale-out, and purification.
• Evaluate and integrate new technologies including liquid-handling robotics, continuous flow, microreactors, and generative chemistry tools.
• Drive reliability engineering, preventive maintenance, and ensure lab safety and compliance for automated operations.
• Lead and develop scientific teams at the senior and principal scientist levels.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, data science, and automation engineering teams.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Organic or Medicinal Chemistry (or related field) with 10+ years of experience; M.S. with 16+ years; or B.S. with 18+ years in pharmaceutical R&D.
• Deep medicinal chemistry knowledge, including SAR, SBDD, cheminformatics, and ADME/PK data interpretation.
• 10+ years of experience building and scaling lab or chemical process automation.
• 5+ years of experience leading cross-functional R&D teams.
• Proficiency with automated synthesis platforms, including robotic reaction screening and purification systems.
• Experience with AI-driven DMTA and autonomous design-make loops.
• Familiarity with scheduling software, LIMS/ELN, and data pipeline tools.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary range ($177,000 - $278,080).
• Eligibility for short-term and/or long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Paid volunteer time off and well-being benefits.
• Paid vacation and sick time.

About the Company

Takeda is an industry-leading, global pharmaceutical company dedicated to putting patients at the center of everything we do. Driven by our values of Integrity, Fairness, Honesty, and Perseverance, we strive toward better health and a brighter future through leading innovation in medicine.