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Scientist - Molecular Biology, Cell Culture Upstream Process Development

Eli Lilly and Company
August 23, 2026
Full-time
On-site
Indianapolis, IN
Operations
Role: Principal/Sr. Principal Scientist in upstream process development within Lilly's Bioproduct Research and Development organization, focusing on biologics such as monoclonal antibodies, therapeutic proteins, cell and gene therapies. Responsibilities include designing and executing upstream development experiments for bioproduct active pharmaceutical ingredients, troubleshooting technical issues, supporting process transfers to pilot and manufacturing scales, authoring regulatory and technical documentation, and collaborating cross-functionally with discovery, manufacturing, and external partners. Qualifications: BS/MS in Microbiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related field; 3+ to 6+ years’ relevant industrial experience; hands-on expertise in cell line generation, cell culture, bioprocessing, and data analysis. Preferred skills include experience with experiment design, data interpretation, and knowledge of bioprocess scaling, regulatory requirements, and data science/AI. High-value biopharma specifics: biologics, cell/gene therapies, process development for active pharmaceutical ingredients, and regulatory document authorship. Work environment is a laboratory setting, with physical demands typical of lab work; travel requirements are not specified. The role demands effective communication, teamwork, and project management in a regulated GxP environment.