AI Research Accelerator (AIRx)
AI-enabled, biotech‑speed discovery. Backed by Takeda.
Part of Takeda Research and Development, AI Research Accelerator (AIRx) is an AI‑enabled discovery incubator, bringing together small, senior teams with real autonomy to move faster, think differently and advance differentiated medicines toward the clinic.
About the AI Research Accelerator (AIRx) at Takeda
The AI Research Accelerator (AIRx) group is an incubator model within Takeda R&D, created to advance our bold Labs of Tomorrow vision by prototyping a new AI‑enabled discovery operating model.
Inspired by leading AI‑native biotechs, AIRx operates at startup speed while leveraging the scientific depth, pipeline and resources of a global biopharma. Teams work on real discovery programs with clear accountability, faster learning cycles and decision authority from day one.
Patients are at the center of this model. By working smarter and making decisions earlier, AIRx is designed to help deliver differentiated medicines sooner.
Based in our flagship research hubs in Cambridge, MA and Shonan, Japan, AIRx teams sit at the center of global R&D innovation and offer a unique entry point into research and development careers at Takeda.
Why AIRx is different
AI-First
Leverage cutting-edge AI tools to accelerate decision-making and forge new paths for discovery.
Incubator Model
A distinct, leadership‑sponsored model designed to challenge how discovery works.
Real Autonomy
Leaders own decisions and move programs forward through rapid DMTA cycles.
From the leaders building AIRx
This is a rare opportunity to help build a new discovery operating model from the ground up. AIRx gives leaders the space to experiment and define what AI‑enabled drug discovery should look like at scale.
– Hans Bitter, Head of Computational Sciences, AIRx Co‑lead
Patients benefit when we make clearer decisions earlier. AIRx is designed to give leaders the authority to move quickly, shorten learning cycles and focus relentlessly on advancing the right medicines.
– Jim Johnston, Head of GI & Inflammation DDU, AIRx Co‑lead
Who we're looking for
AIRx is built for exceptional discovery leaders who combine deep scientific judgment with genuine AI fluency and want to help redefine how medicines are discovered.
We're hiring across four areas:
- Biology—Leaders with multiple IND track records who can drive can drive deep disease biology and translational strategy in complex therapeutic areas.
- Chemistry—Medicinal chemists who have extensive experience in designing molecules and taking them to candidate in lean, fully externalized DMTA cycles.
- Computational sciences—Scientists fluent in modern ML/AI methods who can apply cutting-edge technology in shaping program decisions.
- Program leadership—Operators who can run small, empowered teams end-to-end with full accountability for time, cost and quality.
If you are motivated by shaping what comes next, AIRx offers a rare opportunity to set the pace for AI‑enabled drug discovery at Takeda.
Ready to build the future of AI‑enabled drug discovery at Takeda?
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