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Global Therapeutic Research Lead, Neuroscience

Takeda Pharmaceutical
Takeda Pharmaceutical
10-12 years
$208,200 – $327,140
10 Jan. 22, 2026
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.Sc/M.Sc/M.Pharma/B.Pharma/Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Job Title: Global Therapeutic Research Lead – Neuroscience

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Department: Neuroscience Drug Discovery Unit (NS DDU)
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid

Role Overview:
Takeda is seeking a highly experienced Global Therapeutic Research Lead (G-TRL) to drive strategic drug discovery programs in Neuroscience. This senior leadership role is critical for advancing top-priority small molecule projects from discovery through early clinical development. The G-TRL will provide scientific and strategic leadership across the global Research function, managing cross-functional teams and fostering innovation to deliver high-quality clinical candidates with significant commercial potential.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and oversee one or more Top 10 drug discovery projects, managing all phases from target identification to preclinical development.

  • Develop and execute the project strategy, ensuring alignment with Takeda’s Neuroscience Therapeutic Area strategy.

  • Collaborate with Clinical, Translational, and Commercial teams to refine asset strategy and optimize clinical development paths.

  • Evaluate and prioritize potential drug candidates based on scientific, medical, and commercial considerations.

  • Mentor and develop global project teams, fostering enterprise thinking, innovation, and professional growth.

  • Build strategic external partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry collaborators.

  • Drive project execution using innovative practices, critical-path strategies, and competitive industry methods.

  • Oversee experiment design, data analysis, and interpretation to guide project decisions and optimize drug discovery outcomes.

  • Represent Takeda externally as a scientific ambassador and evaluate potential external collaborations and business development opportunities.

  • Stay abreast of advancements in drug discovery, emerging technologies, and industry trends, applying insights to enhance project strategies.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Advanced degree in Life Sciences (Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent).

  • 10–12+ years of industry experience with subject matter expertise in Neuroscience, Immunology, or Inflammation.

  • Proven track record in leading multiple discovery programs to IND filing, ideally overseeing 3+ INDs.

  • Experience managing cross-functional, global matrix teams and fostering scientific excellence.

  • Expertise in small molecule drug discovery; familiarity with oligonucleotide and biologic modalities is a plus.

  • Deep understanding of target identification, hit-to-lead optimization, and preclinical development.

  • Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate diverse teams.

  • Business acumen, regulatory awareness, and strategic thinking in drug discovery and development.

  • Ability to drive high-impact decisions in a fast-paced, global environment.

Why Join Takeda:

  • Lead cutting-edge Neuroscience drug discovery programs with global impact.

  • Collaborate with top-tier scientists and cross-functional teams in a culture of innovation, diversity, and inclusion.

  • Competitive salary range: $208,200 – $327,140 plus potential short- and long-term incentives.

  • Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, 401(k) matching, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs.

  • Opportunity to shape the future of transformative therapies and advance Takeda’s mission of creating better health for people worldwide.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
Takeda is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.