TAKEDA

2026 U.S Summer Internship Program: Drug discovery Research Intern

Boston, MA Full time

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Job Description

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 three therapeutic areas and other targeted investments, we push the boundaries of what is possible in order to bring life-changing therapies to patients worldwide. The Liver Disease Research Team within the Gastroenterology and Inflammation Drug Discovery Unit (GI² DDU) is dedicated to validating novel therapeutic targets and evaluating drug candidates for the treatment of chronic fibroinflammatory liver diseases.
 

Our division-sponsored program offers students a valuable opportunity to work in an innovative and collaborative environment, where cross-functional research drives the discovery and development of novel therapeutic agents to benefit patients. Participants will gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced setting, contributing to cutting-edge research projects. The program also provides diverse opportunities to collaborate within a matrixed organization and engage with scientists from a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds.
 

How You Will Contribute:

  • Apply scientific and technical expertise in cell biology and pharmacology to drive drug discovery programs within our team.  

  • Designs and executes relevant target and drug candidate validation studies using contemporary methods and tools (including but not limited to RT-qPCR, ELISA, MSD, and flow cytometry).

  • Prepare technical reports, summaries, protocols, and quantitative analyses in written and/or oral form.

  • Drive an inclusive, open, and effective culture in a fast-growing drug discovery group.

Internship Development Opportunities:

  • The intern will collaborate closely with experienced research scientists to support our innovative pipeline.

  • Design and execute functional assays to evaluate the pharmacology of potential drug targets.

  • Utilizing either 2D or innovative 3D liver spheroid/organoid ex vivo system to assess the efficacy and/or target engagement of potential drug targets that enables Go/No go decisions.

  • Gain practical exposure to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to move project forward in the pipeline.

  • Prepare oral presentations to the functional team.
     

Job Requirements:

  • Must be pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral Degree in a relevant Field of Study 

  • This position is fully onsite: 5 days per week

  • Conducts complex experiments within a project scope, exercising judgement to evaluate a variety of technical factors, and obtain optimum solutions.

  • Utilizes assigned literature to increase knowledge base and implement improvements.

  • Organize time and plan specifics of project related work with oversight from manager or project representative

  • A foundational knowledge of cell biology, pharmacology, and biochemistry is preferred.

  • This position requires full-time commitment, necessitating five days of on-site work.

  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a collaborative team member.
     

Internship Eligibility 

  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a permanent basis without requiring sponsorship 

  • Must be currently enrolled in a degree program graduating December 2026 or later 

  • The internship program is 10-12 weeks depending on the two start dates (May 26th-August 14th or June 15th- August 21st)  

  • The intern must be able to commit to one of these time frames  

  • Able to work full time 40 hours a week during internship dates  

  • Takeda does not provide a housing stipend or relocation support for the U.S Summer Internship Program 

 

 Program Highlights: 

  • Hands-on experience with real projects and responsibilities 

  • Dedicated mentorship program pairing interns with experienced professionals 

  • Networking opportunities with industry professionals and fellow interns 

  • Internship events focused on professional and skills development  

  • Exposure to multiple business areas or departments within a Pharmaceutical Organization 

Applications will be accepted between October 31st- November 16th

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary 

We understand compensation may bean important factor as you consider an internship opportunity. 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. Hourly Wage Range:

$21.00 - $46.00

The estimated hourly range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual hourly wage offered will depend on the candidate’s school year/level to be entered following completion of internship.  The actual hourly wage offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location. 

 

U.S. internship benefits vary by location and may include: 

  •  Paid sick time 

  • Civic Duty paid time off 

  • Participation at company volunteer events  

  • Participation at company sponsored special events  

  • Access to on-site fitness center (where available) 

  • Commuter Benefit: To offset your work-commute expenses, Takeda provides U.S. employees with a fixed monthly subsidy to be used for either public transportation (transit) or parking.  

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

Paid Intern (Fixed Term) (Trainee)

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

No

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