Associate Director, Software Architect – AI/ML

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Job Description

GOALS:

We are inviting experienced software architect and engineers to join us in the ShinrAI Center for AI/ML at Takeda to design, build, and support cutting-edge AI/ML solutions – including Large Language Models (LLMs) and agentic AI --  that accelerate pharmaceutical R&D. You will collaborate with scientists and data experts to deliver scalable, compliant software platforms that drive discoveries, optimize decision-making, and streamline clinical and real-world evidence analysis.

At the ShinrAI Center, we’re a team of scientists, engineers, machine learning experts and more, working together to advance the application of artificial intelligence in developing innovative medicine for patients.  We like to solve problems, take initiative, pitch in when needed, and enthusiastic for trying new things.  We are looking for more curious thinkers who like to tackle challenging, real-world problems in a rewarding environment where your contributions are valued and have a direct impact.

We're building a diverse team whose skills, experiences, and backgrounds complement one another.  Extensive experience working in Pharma or Biotech is optional.  A strong curiosity for a deeper understanding of human health and disease to deliver innovative medicine for patients is a must.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Architect and develop AI/ML-driven software for R&D, including large language model services and multiagent orchestration to solve R&D challenges (e.g. knowledge extraction, medical writing, drug design, clinical trial optimization, etc. ).

• Define and document the end-to-end technical architecture for new and existing software applications, including system components, services, and integrations. 

• Develop and maintain the long-term technical roadmap, ensuring it aligns with business goals and industry best practices.

• Lead the design of robust, scalable, and secure solutions that meet both functional and non-functional requirements.

• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies, frameworks, languages, and tools for new projects.  Validate new architectural approaches and technologies. Drive rigorous build-vs-buy analyses, recommending when to leverage partner ecosystem solutions

• Establish and enforce architectural standards, coding best practices, and design patterns across the R&D organization. Champion and drive the adoption of modern architectural paradigms such as microservices, event-driven architecture, and serverless computing.

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to multiple agile development teams. Mentor senior and junior engineers in cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.

• Work closely with product managers, business analysts, and other stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical specifications and architectural designs.

• Collaborate with DevOps teams to ensure that the architecture is designed for continuous integration, deployment (CI/CD), and operational excellence.

• Imagine the art of the possible—think creatively to envision bold AI innovations and translate those visions into enterprise-class, production-ready solutions.

EDUCATION, BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS:

• BS degree in computer science, engineering or related field. MS or higher degree preferred.

• 8+ years of industry experience in architecting, building, launching, and maintaining end-to-end ML systems from whiteboard to production at scale across a range of models and platforms, such as: Hands-on coding experience with LLMs and agentic AI frameworks. Experience with AI/ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), and scientific data integration. Experience with ML Ops concepts related to testing, retraining, and monitoring models in production. Experience in configuring and working in different coding environments (local, notebooks, containers) and using standard software engineering workflows (testing, code management/Git, CI/CD).

• A track record of partnering cross-functionally with a wide range of stakeholders and cross-functional teams to develop and deploy novel data solutions in production environments.

• Demonstrated passion for making complex technology more accessible and the ability to communicate complex technical topics simply and convincingly to a wide range of audiences.

• Demonstrated ability in translating big picture business and product ideas into micro use cases and has a strong focus on solving core problems to deliver straightforward, effectives solutions.

• Experience recognizing and communicating the implications of emerging technologies.

• Excellent communication, prioritization, and interpersonal skills, with a high level of attention to detail.

• An enthusiasm to ask questions and try and learn new things is essential.

• Ability to be agile, adaptable, and drive change.

• Ability to work in global matrix organization with a high degree of uncertainty.

• Experience in life sciences and healthcare desirable.

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, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$153,600.00 - $241,340.00

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, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

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