Associate Scientist – Technical Services & Manufacturing Sciences (TS/MS)

Role Summary

Associate Scientist – Technical Services & Manufacturing Sciences (TS/MS) at Elanco’s Technology Center in Indianapolis, supporting the optimization and advancement of bacterial and mammalian cell culture manufacturing processes. Responsible for executing lab-scale models, analyzing experimental data, identifying process improvements, and collaborating across functions to support Elanco’s pharmaceutical and biotech product portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze lab-scale experiments to model large-scale fermentation and cell culture processes, using engineering and microbiological principles to generate actionable data that supports process optimization and troubleshooting
• Lead and manage small-scale laboratory projects, ensuring experiments are properly designed with clear objectives, timelines, and documentation in laboratory notebooks and technical reports
• Drive process improvement initiatives by monitoring process trends, performing data mining using control systems and data historians, and identifying optimization opportunities through technical investigations and collaboration with senior scientists
• Provide scientific support for manufacturing processes, including oversight of mammalian and bacterial culture (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella), guidance on scale-up strategies, and troubleshooting deviations or yield issues
• Communicate technical findings and recommendations through formal presentations, summary reports, and participation in department technical reviews, while also contributing to a culture of safety and scientific rigor in the lab

Qualifications

• Required: Education—Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline
• Required: Demonstrated laboratory experience in designing and conducting experiments; ability to interpret biological and process data with strong mechanical aptitude
• Required: Strong communication and problem-solving skills; ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively in both team-based and independent settings
• Preferred: Hands-on experience with bacterial and/or mammalian cell culture systems and the operation of bioreactors or fermenters
• Preferred: Experience with experimental design, data interpretation, and use of basic statistical tools for biological process analysis
• Preferred: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic statistical software; ability to document and present scientific results clearly
• Preferred: Flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs and the ability to work cross-functionally with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams
• Preferred: Growth mindset with a desire for ongoing scientific and professional development

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline

Skills

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively in both team-based and independent settings
• Proficiency in basic statistical tools and Microsoft Office

Additional Requirements

• Location: Elanco Technology Center – Indianapolis, IN
• May involve working with hazardous or biologically active materials, occasional exposure to high noise levels, and interaction with large-scale lab equipment
• Some weekend or off-hours work may be required during peak periods