Postdoctoral Scientist – Gene Therapy Biodistribution & Molecular Biology (CNS)
Eli Lilly and Company
August 19, 2026
On-site
Boston, MA
Clinical Research and Development
Position Overview
Postdoctoral Scientist (DDCS) focused on CNS gene therapy biodistribution and molecular bioanalysis; supports optimization and translational advancement of viral and non-viral gene therapy platforms for neurological/neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, optimize, and execute biodistribution assays for AAVs, LNPs, siRNA distribution, transgene expression, and persistence across CNS and peripheral tissues.
- Apply vector biology knowledge, including AAV serotype-specific biodistribution (e.g., AAV9, AAVrh10, PHP.eB).
- Use PCR/qPCR/ddPCR and stem-loop PCR; vg/dg quantification; ELISA/immunoassays; LC–MS (where applicable); IHC and spatial analyses; NGS for tracking/expression/integration analyses.
- Ensure assays are fit-for-purpose (sensitive, reproducible) and aligned to translational objectives; perform off-target analysis and DRG toxicology assay development.
- Independently design and troubleshoot in vivo biodistribution studies (DoE/DOR), maintain documentation/data integrity.
- Interface with external CROs; provide oversight of tissue/sample collection and downstream analyses.
- Analyze and visualize multi-dimensional datasets; present and communicate findings.
Basic Requirements
- PhD in molecular biology/biochemistry/pharmacology/neuroscience/bioengineering or related field.
- In-depth AAV biodistribution analysis and/or molecular bioanalytical assay development.
- Hands-on expertise: PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, IHC, NGS and/or related methods.
- CNS gene therapy delivery/transgene expression/tissue biology knowledge; independent experimental design and troubleshooting.
- Authorized to work in the U.S. full-time; Lilly does not sponsor visas (incl. F-1 CPT/OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, L-1).
Additional Preferences
- PK/PD knowledge; spatial transcriptomics/RNAscope; CNS tissue/animal model experience; integrate biodistribution with imaging/functional/efficacy readouts; CRO collaboration; FDA (2020) long-term follow-up and EMA biodistribution guidance knowledge.
Other Information / Benefits
- Fixed-term: 1 year, extendable up to 4 years; daily on-site work in Boston, MA.
- Eligible for company bonus and comprehensive benefits (e.g., 401(k), medical/dental/vision).
Postdoctoral Scientist (DDCS) focused on CNS gene therapy biodistribution and molecular bioanalysis; supports optimization and translational advancement of viral and non-viral gene therapy platforms for neurological/neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, optimize, and execute biodistribution assays for AAVs, LNPs, siRNA distribution, transgene expression, and persistence across CNS and peripheral tissues.
- Apply vector biology knowledge, including AAV serotype-specific biodistribution (e.g., AAV9, AAVrh10, PHP.eB).
- Use PCR/qPCR/ddPCR and stem-loop PCR; vg/dg quantification; ELISA/immunoassays; LC–MS (where applicable); IHC and spatial analyses; NGS for tracking/expression/integration analyses.
- Ensure assays are fit-for-purpose (sensitive, reproducible) and aligned to translational objectives; perform off-target analysis and DRG toxicology assay development.
- Independently design and troubleshoot in vivo biodistribution studies (DoE/DOR), maintain documentation/data integrity.
- Interface with external CROs; provide oversight of tissue/sample collection and downstream analyses.
- Analyze and visualize multi-dimensional datasets; present and communicate findings.
Basic Requirements
- PhD in molecular biology/biochemistry/pharmacology/neuroscience/bioengineering or related field.
- In-depth AAV biodistribution analysis and/or molecular bioanalytical assay development.
- Hands-on expertise: PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, IHC, NGS and/or related methods.
- CNS gene therapy delivery/transgene expression/tissue biology knowledge; independent experimental design and troubleshooting.
- Authorized to work in the U.S. full-time; Lilly does not sponsor visas (incl. F-1 CPT/OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, L-1).
Additional Preferences
- PK/PD knowledge; spatial transcriptomics/RNAscope; CNS tissue/animal model experience; integrate biodistribution with imaging/functional/efficacy readouts; CRO collaboration; FDA (2020) long-term follow-up and EMA biodistribution guidance knowledge.
Other Information / Benefits
- Fixed-term: 1 year, extendable up to 4 years; daily on-site work in Boston, MA.
- Eligible for company bonus and comprehensive benefits (e.g., 401(k), medical/dental/vision).