Advisor, Downstream Process Development – Viral Vectors
Eli Lilly and Company
August 23, 2026
On-site
Boston, MA
Operations
Key Responsibilities
- Design and execute downstream process development experiments for AAV purification, including affinity capture, ion-exchange chromatography, ultrafiltration/diafiltration, viral filtration, and ultracentrifugation
- Develop and implement novel AAV purification strategies; establish DSP operating principles and process understanding across diverse serotypes
- Develop and apply mechanistic chromatography models to predict column performance, guide operating condition selection, and accelerate scale-up decisions
- Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream process development, analytical development, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful clinical manufacturing
- Present experimental findings at internal team meetings, cross-functional reviews, and external conferences; contribute to scientific publications and patent applications as appropriate
- Author and review technical documents including process descriptions, batch records, process characterization reports, and CMC sections of IND/BLA filings
- Mentor junior scientists
Basic Qualifications
- Ph.D. (or related field) with 2+ years of relevant downstream process development experience for biologics/gene therapy, OR M.S. with 10+ years relevant industry experience
- Hands-on experience with protein purification techniques: chromatography (affinity, ion exchange, HIC) and membrane-based separations (UF/DF, depth filtration)
- Proficiency in statistical design of experiments (JMP, Minitab) and data analysis
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with recombinant AAV or other viral vectors (lentivirus, adenovirus)
- Automation platforms for HTP process screening
- Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB
- Knowledge of machine learning/multivariate analysis for bioprocess data
- Strong understanding of viral vector biology, expression systems, and analytical methods
- Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and adaptability
Benefits (as stated)
- Anticipated base pay: $138,000–$202,400; eligible for company bonus; comprehensive benefit program incl. 401(k), pension, vacation, medical/dental/vision/prescription, flexible benefits, life insurance, time off/leave, and well-being benefits
Application Instructions
- If you require accommodation to submit a resume, complete the workplace accommodation request form: https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation
- Design and execute downstream process development experiments for AAV purification, including affinity capture, ion-exchange chromatography, ultrafiltration/diafiltration, viral filtration, and ultracentrifugation
- Develop and implement novel AAV purification strategies; establish DSP operating principles and process understanding across diverse serotypes
- Develop and apply mechanistic chromatography models to predict column performance, guide operating condition selection, and accelerate scale-up decisions
- Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream process development, analytical development, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful clinical manufacturing
- Present experimental findings at internal team meetings, cross-functional reviews, and external conferences; contribute to scientific publications and patent applications as appropriate
- Author and review technical documents including process descriptions, batch records, process characterization reports, and CMC sections of IND/BLA filings
- Mentor junior scientists
Basic Qualifications
- Ph.D. (or related field) with 2+ years of relevant downstream process development experience for biologics/gene therapy, OR M.S. with 10+ years relevant industry experience
- Hands-on experience with protein purification techniques: chromatography (affinity, ion exchange, HIC) and membrane-based separations (UF/DF, depth filtration)
- Proficiency in statistical design of experiments (JMP, Minitab) and data analysis
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with recombinant AAV or other viral vectors (lentivirus, adenovirus)
- Automation platforms for HTP process screening
- Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB
- Knowledge of machine learning/multivariate analysis for bioprocess data
- Strong understanding of viral vector biology, expression systems, and analytical methods
- Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and adaptability
Benefits (as stated)
- Anticipated base pay: $138,000–$202,400; eligible for company bonus; comprehensive benefit program incl. 401(k), pension, vacation, medical/dental/vision/prescription, flexible benefits, life insurance, time off/leave, and well-being benefits
Application Instructions
- If you require accommodation to submit a resume, complete the workplace accommodation request form: https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation