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Scientific Director - Sustainable Peptide Process Chemistry – SMDD

Eli Lilly and Company
On-site
Indianapolis, IN
$148,500 - $257,400 USD yearly
Operations

Role Summary

Lead a team of peptide chemists to design and develop sustainable synthetic peptide processes, with oversight of multi-kg scale development at CMOs and internal activities. Drive commercialization projects for incretin peptide therapies, collaborate with global partners, and advance next-generation, sustainable manufacturing approaches within the Synthetic Molecule Design and Development division.

Responsibilities

  • Lead a team of peptide chemists in designing and developing sustainable synthetic peptide processes.
  • Provide oversight for multi-kg scale peptide process development at contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) and lead internal development activities.
  • Educate and mentor CMOs on best practices for greener peptide development and manufacturing.
  • Present research findings at internal forums and external conferences; publish in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals.
  • Communicate both the technical and business implications of research outcomes clearly and effectively.
  • Apply expertise in Tag-Assisted Liquid-Phase Peptide Chemistry to enable scalable and efficient peptide synthesis.

Qualifications

  • Required: Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field with 7+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience, or
  • Required: B.S./M.S. in Chemistry with 12+ years of relevant experience in industry or academia.
  • Preferred: Strong interpersonal skills and a sustained track record of collaboration.

Skills

  • Excellence in multiple modes of peptide synthesis, including hybrid SPPS/LPPS chemistry.
  • Experience leading teams of scientists in peptide route development.
  • Ability to design, develop, and implement sustainable, innovative processes for complex peptide synthesis, with a focus on PFAS-free conditions.
  • Green chemistry and engineering solutions to improve environmental footprint and reduce PMI.
  • Familiarity with chromatography, mass spectrometry, optical spectroscopy, and peptide automation.
  • Strong technical problem-solving ability and intrinsic motivation to succeed in team environments.
  • Track record of innovative scientific research, with publications and external conference presentations.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field (7+ years) or B.S./M.S. in Chemistry with 12+ years of relevant experience.

Additional Requirements

  • Physical Demands/Travel: 0–10% travel; duties consistent with a lab and office environment.
  • Work Environment: Laboratory and office environment.