Environment Facility
Astellas’ innovation is driven by diverse sites across Japan and around the world.
From cutting-edge research laboratories to pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities
under rigorous quality control—in every field, we continue to take on daily challenges to bring smiles to patients. Here, we would like to introduce the places where we work.
Tsukuba Research Center
- Tsukuba Research Center
- Tsukuba Biotechnology Research Center(Tsukuba Tokodai Facility Center)
- Tsukuba Tokodai Technology Center(Tsukuba Tokodai Facility Center)
Takahagi Technology Center
- Takahagi Technology Center
Yaizu Technology Center
- Yaizu Technology Center
- Yaizu Pharmaceutical Research Center
- Toyama Technology Center
- Takaoka Plant*
Tsukuba Research Center
Welcome to Our Workplace!
Innovation LabShimeng Qiu
I am involved in the development of in vitro assay systems* aimed at evaluating drug candidates in the non-clinical stage. By incorporating innovative methods such as lab automation and pluripotent stem cell technology, I strive to establish assay systems with higher precision and reproducibility. The Tsukuba Research Center, where I work, is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities as well as open communication spaces where we can freely discuss science. Within this exceptional environment, I work on the rapid and accurate evaluation of drug candidates using the latest technologies. Our research is directly linked to swiftly delivering new treatments to patients suffering from diseases as quickly as possible. Through drug discovery, I witness firsthand every day how the power of science can transform people's lives, and I take great pride in playing a part in that process. I am passionately dedicated to my research and aim to contribute to the future of medicine.
*Cell-based assay systems
About the Location
Tsukuba is a renowned academic city with numerous research institutes and corporate R&D bases. In recent years, its population has grown significantly, driven by factors such as its excellent access to central Tokyo. Designated as an International Strategic Zone, the city actively promotes initiatives to foster innovation. It has also been ranked as a high-potential city for growth, cultivating a culture that deeply values challenge and creativity.
The area around the station is well-equipped with essential amenities for daily life, including housing and a variety of dining options. A short trip further out reveals scenic landscapes, such as Mount Tsukuba, where one can experience the beauty of the four seasons. Why not start a new life filled with intellectual stimulation in this city where cutting-edge research, rich nature, and urban convenience converge?
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Cityscape of Tsukuba viewed from Tsukuba Station -
The scenic beauty of Mount Tsukuba
About the Facility
Located approximately 10 minutes by company shuttle bus from the nearest station, Kenkyu-gakuen, the Tsukuba Research Center serves as the core hub for Astellas Pharma's research and development. The fundamental design concepts of the center are "Communication" and "The Intersection of Different Areas of Expertise." To maximize research creativity, the entire campus is designed with a focus on "Spaciousness" and "Serenity." In addition to dining halls and cafeterias, the facility is well-equipped with amenities for employee refreshment, including a fitness center, tennis courts, a sports field, a table tennis room, and a music room. The Tsukuba Research Center is a place for intellectual creation that sparks innovation.—a space that fosters interaction among Research scientists and where expertise from diverse fields converges.
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Panoramic view of Tsukuba Science City -
Research Building Exterior -
Main Entrance -
Sunlit Atrium -
Dining Hall -
Cafeteria
Takahagi Technology Center
Welcome to Our Workplace!
Production TechnologyDepartment Commercial &
CTM Process
Equipment Management
Yasuki Nemoto
I work in the Equipment Technology Department, where we manage tasks ranging from the introduction of new production equipment to maintenance. We understand various types of equipment used in pharmaceutical manufacturing and plan and execute maintenance based on their condition. This helps keep our production equipment running smoothly and ensures a stable supply of medicines.
To adapt to new processes and improve efficiency on the manufacturing floor, we gather information on the latest equipment and work together with the manufacturing department and equipment manufacturers on design and construction management for new installations. This job requires not only knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems but also IT skills. I find it really interesting to learn about different fields, and it’s very rewarding!
We often collaborate not just with our own team but also with the manufacturing department and external partners, which allows us to enjoy working with a diverse range of people.
About the Location
Takahagi developed as a castle town in the Edo period when Matsuoka Castle was built. The ruins of Matsuoka Castle are notable for their beautiful cherry blossoms, and the nearby Oyashiki-Dori lets you experience the ambiance of the traditional castle town. Takahagi initially developed as a city of coal industry following the opening of the Joban Line in the Meiji period, and is now evolving into an industrial town due to the expansion of businesses into industrial parks. The allure of Takahagi is that you can experience various outdoor activities due to its rich natural surroundings; you can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at the beach, and golfing and lake canoeing in the mountains. Hananuki Gorge, Hitachi Seaside Park, and Hagi Village are definitely worth visiting. From season to season, you’ll enjoy sports, camping, and gourmet food in the magnificent nature of Takahagi.
About the Facility
The extensive premises of Takahagi Technology Center are around three times larger than Tokyo Dome and located 4 kilometers from Takahagi Station. Since the facility is located on a slighly elevated site overlooking the ocean, there are ocean views as far as the eye can see. An ancient grave known as “kofun” situated near the premises also adds an extra uniqueness to the center. The primary function of Takahagi Technology Center is drug substance manufacturing functions focusing on chemical synthesis, making the center a vital base for the stable supply of chemically-synthesized drug substances. The facility also carries out various other duties in addition to manufacturing, including lab experiments and examinations, quality tests and assurance, environment, safety, and health (ESH) management, and worksite operations. Collaboration with each of these departments contributes to the stable supply of pharmaceutical products. Although we have fewer staff members compared to our other business facilities, our small size makes it easier for us to work as a team, and many of us actively participate in club activities.
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Panoramic view of the Takahagi Technology Center -
Office Area -
The Hall -
Dining Hall -
Cafeteria -
Foyer -
Laboratory -
Production Area -
Production Area
Yaizu Technology Center
Welcome to Our Workplace!
Production TechnologyDepartment 3 Technology
Development Unit
Kazunori Chida
I joined Astellas because I wanted to work at a global company. I decided to apply for a manufacturing-related position because I was fascinated by the idea of creating and delivering products directly to patients. In my first year at Astellas, I was assigned to the department of commercial pharmaceutical product production. I was transferred to the department of investigational new drug (IND) production in my second year, where I performed duties specific to the phases of clinical trials for about five years. I’m now in the Technology Development Unit, where I work on a wide variety of production-related tasks. Some of my duties include collecting data related to product quality and production, examining quality improvement and issue resolution, and transferring technology to enable other plants to produce the products manufactured at our facility. I find it rewarding to work in this ever-changing environment where I face such challenges as implementing new approaches and technologies, dealing with the latest regulations, and establishing global connections.
About the Location
Panoramic view of theYaizu Technology Center
Gourmet cuisine is definitely one of the best features of Yaizu. The city is abundant with fresh, delicious seafood such as eel, sakura shrimp, red bream, tuna, and bonito. Yaizu also has numerous historical sites, including places associated with Ieyasu Tokugawa and the old Tōkaidō road. It’s also a comfortable place to live due to the mild climate with no snowfall in the winter. Since the town is surrounded by mountains and sea, you can enjoy outdoor activities like mountain climbing, camping, fishing, and motorbike touring. In addition to offering easy access to bullet train stations and freeways, our location is also near Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport, making the area convenient for long-distance travel.
About the Facility
Yaizu Technology Center is located in the urban district within walking distance to Nishi-Yaizu Station, allowing convenient access for employees. The center is responsible for the research and development (R&D), production, and quality control of products such as solid and injectable drug preparations. Over the years, Yaizu Technology Center has launched a large number of new products worldwide. We have around 800 employees, including staff members from our partner company, and many of them seem to be gentle and calm individuals. Our workplace allows us all, from new employees to veterans, to make the most of our indiviuality and use it to succeed in our jobs. In terms of the facilities, our massive premises include tennis courts, fields, and several new office buildings. You can also get excellent food from the cafeteria, which sometimes offers special event dishes besides the usual menu. The row of cherry blossom trees planted at the main entrance is one of my favorite spots at Yaizu Technology Center.
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Exterior of the Security, QSC, and Welfare Buildings -
Exterior of the Welfare Building -
tennis court -
Observation Gallery - Bldg. 5 -
Dining Hall -
Interaction Room