Post-Doctoral Scientist– Molecular Pharmacology
Eli Lilly and Company
August 08, 2026
Remote friendly (Indianapolis, IN)
United States
Clinical Research and Development
The Molecular Pharmacology group in Lilly Small Molecule Discovery (LSMD) and Cardiometabolic research unit (CMR) seeks a post-doctoral scientist. Focus on establishing and applying assays to evaluate mitochondrial uncouplers in a context- and system-dependent manner, and screening for novel small molecule uncouplers to treat metabolic disease.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and validate assays to identify small molecule uncouplers.
- Characterize in vitro mitochondrial uncoupling activity across cell types, tissues, and disease-relevant systems.
- Work with and be mentored by experts in bioenergetics, molecular pharmacology, and metabolic disease biology.
- Design and execute small molecule screens; characterize mechanism of action, potency, selectivity, and safety margin.
- Identify key needs across clinical development; champion creative solutions and maintain external awareness.
- Present findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Basic Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or related field.
- Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; Lilly will not provide visa/work authorization support.
Additional Skills/Preferences:
- Hands-on molecular biology techniques; CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing experience.
- Plate-based high-throughput assay experience (TR-FRET, BRET, AlphaLISA, or similar).
- Cellular target engagement assays (e.g., CETSA, NanoBRET) preferred.
- Cell-based imaging (high-content/high-throughput imaging, fluorescence microscopy, confocal) preferred.
- RT-PCR/qPCR proficiency.
- Proteomics/chemical biology approaches (mass spectrometry proteomics, activity-based protein profiling, chemical probe development) plus.
- Strong scientific communication and peer-reviewed publication record.
Benefits (as stated): Eligibility for 401(k); pension; vacation; medical/dental/vision/prescription drug; flexible benefits; life insurance/death benefits; time off/leave of absence; well-being benefits (EAP, fitness, clubs/activities).
Responsibilities:
- Develop and validate assays to identify small molecule uncouplers.
- Characterize in vitro mitochondrial uncoupling activity across cell types, tissues, and disease-relevant systems.
- Work with and be mentored by experts in bioenergetics, molecular pharmacology, and metabolic disease biology.
- Design and execute small molecule screens; characterize mechanism of action, potency, selectivity, and safety margin.
- Identify key needs across clinical development; champion creative solutions and maintain external awareness.
- Present findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Basic Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, or related field.
- Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; Lilly will not provide visa/work authorization support.
Additional Skills/Preferences:
- Hands-on molecular biology techniques; CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing experience.
- Plate-based high-throughput assay experience (TR-FRET, BRET, AlphaLISA, or similar).
- Cellular target engagement assays (e.g., CETSA, NanoBRET) preferred.
- Cell-based imaging (high-content/high-throughput imaging, fluorescence microscopy, confocal) preferred.
- RT-PCR/qPCR proficiency.
- Proteomics/chemical biology approaches (mass spectrometry proteomics, activity-based protein profiling, chemical probe development) plus.
- Strong scientific communication and peer-reviewed publication record.
Benefits (as stated): Eligibility for 401(k); pension; vacation; medical/dental/vision/prescription drug; flexible benefits; life insurance/death benefits; time off/leave of absence; well-being benefits (EAP, fitness, clubs/activities).