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2026 Summer Internship Program: Orexin Drug Development Intern

Cambridge, Massachusetts
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  • Job Level: Senior
  • Travel: Minimal (if any)

Takeda has been translating science into breakthrough medicines for 240 years. Every step of the way, our teams have worked together to tackle some of the most challenging problems in drug discovery and development. Today, we’re a driving force behind innovative therapies that make a lasting difference to millions of patients around the world.

In R&D, all of our history and potential comes together in an environment that welcomes diversity of thought and amplifies every voice. Working closely with colleagues, you’ll play a key role in bringing our rich pipeline of products forward to help patients. Come join a team that’s earned trust for more than two centuries, and find out how advancing transformative therapies at Takeda will shape your bright future.

Job ID R0166336 Date posted 10/31/2025 Location Cambridge, Massachusetts

By clicking the “Apply” button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda’s Privacy Notice and Terms of Use.  I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge.

Job Description

Takeda’s Orexin Franchise is a flagship program aiming at the research, development and commercialization of multiple assets in various phases of their lifecycle, addressing unmet medical needs with the potential of providing improved health outcomes. The Orexin Franchise is a key pillar of the Neuroscience strategy. Takeda is leading the Orexin science with Oveporextonas the potential first treatment for underlying cause of Narcolepsy Type 1 (NT1). Additional assets like TAK-360 are in development for additional sleep/ wake disorders with the potential for additionalindication expansion in respiration, metabolism, moodand other areas where Orexin plays a role.  

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented summer Intern to support our Global Program management in strategic initiatives, cross-functional projects, and operational excellence. This internship provides an opportunity to gain exposure to global program management, stakeholder collaboration, and large-scale project execution in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.Duties will include the following, which is not an exhaustive list, under the manager's supervision

  • Support internal activities like team meetings in preparation of key program activities. 

  • Support external facing activities like meetings with KOLs, investors and regulatory activities

  • May support Global Program Manager (GPM) for day-to-day functions under the guidance of GPM including establishing meeting agendas, facilitating team discussions, follow-through, and support project planning, tracking, and reporting amongothers

  • Drive operational excellence by applying process optimization strategies, leveraging technology solutions, and utilizing strong organizational capabilities to enhance team performance and efficiency.

How You Will Contribute:

As anOrexin Development Intern, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Play a crucial role in ensuring alignment and clear communication between team members and functions, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances project efficiency and success

  • Use of AI enabled tools for efficiency in meetings, minutes capturing, literature search, documents processing, archiving including SharePoint organization.

Internship Development Opportunities:

  • Apply scientific learnings

  • Learn basics of Drug Development Process and apply to use cases of program activities within the Orexin Franchise

  • Learn about neuroscience and exciting orexin biology in multiple systems through exposure to scientific program discussions, literature reviews, and cross-functional interactions

  • Develop an understanding of Team and Leadership skills required for a successful career in Pharmaceuticals

Job Requirements:

  • This position will beHybrid (1-3 days/week in office), out of the Cambridgelocation

  • Must be pursuing a Bachelors (rising Junior/Senior preferred) or Masters Degree in biomedical engineering, or related field

  • Familiarity with AI skills

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:

USA - MA - Cambridge - Kendall Square - 500

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

USA - MA - Cambridge - Kendall Square - 500

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Paid Intern (Fixed Term) (Trainee)

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

No

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
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Glassdoor Reviews and Company Rating
During my 20-year journey here, I’ve been fully supported by my colleagues, and I can’t say enough about our rich internal talent and the long-standing values that drive our decisions as we work to develop important medicines for the patients we serve.

Doug Coffman - Head, R&D Asset Transition & Integration Office, R&D Regional & Business Operations

When making any type of decision, the first thing we ask is 'how will this impact patients?’ Ultimately, we’re laser focused on the best interests of the patient, and I truly believe we follow through on that.

Meredith Culp - VP, Head of Neuroscience Therapeutic Area Strategy & Operations and Head of Global Development Integration Office

Our culture and shared values make us like a family here at Takeda. It doesn't feel like work when you're doing something you love with people you love, and when your outcome is really fantastic.

Alison Handley, Head, Center for External Innovation

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Our values of Takeda-ism are Integrity, Fairness, Honesty and Perseverance, with Integrity as the core. These are brought to life through actions based on Patient, Trust, Reputation and Business, in that order.

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Our embedded Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) strategy enables us to attract and retain exceptional talent, drives innovation, and helps address systemic inequalities in our communities.

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