Senior Research Scientist
Elanco
August 09, 2026
Remote friendly (Indianapolis, IN)
United States
Clinical Research and Development
Your Role: Senior Research Scientist - Target Intelligence and Early Project Lead
Responsibilities:
- Lead novel target identification and prioritization using in vitro/in vivo experiments, literature reviews, bioinformatics, functional genomics, and AI/ML; run iterative design-test-learn and active learning cycles.
- Design and deploy high-throughput and multi-modal screening strategies (biochemical, biophysical, cellular) to find novel chemical/biological starting points; use AI-augmented analysis and digital discovery platforms.
- Guide cross-functional teams through early drug discovery from concept through target validation (Computational Sciences, Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Computational Biology, Technical Development, Preclinical Development); develop ML models for hit expansion and property prediction.
- De-risk targets and improve commercial viability via CMC considerations and on-/off-target safety risk assessment; develop biomarker and translational in vitro disease models (incl. CRISPR/Cas9-edited primary cell lines and organoids).
- Manage external CRO/biotech partnerships (e.g., DEL, phage display, yeast display) and stay current with study design, model development, and NAMs.
Qualifications (Minimum):
- Ph.D. in Cell/Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or related field with several years postdoctoral training.
- Industry research and early-stage biotech/drug discovery experience; CRO management; integrated digital discovery and HTS platforms.
- Expertise in target identification/validation (assay development; high-throughput approaches such as DEL/virtual screening).
- Expertise in NAMs (organoids/iPSCs, CRISPR/Cas9 screening) with strong AI/ML and deep learning.
Preferred:
- 3+ years in pharma (preferably animal health); publication record; success leading projects in fast-paced/agile settings.
- Generative AI experience (e.g., ProteinMPNN); statistical/data analysis knowledge; compound library screening; RNA-seq/omics/flow cytometry.
Additional:
- Travel up to 25%; Hybrid at Global Elanco Headquarters (Indianapolis, IN).
Benefits:
- Multiple relocation packages; two weeklong shutdowns; 8-week parental leave; annual bonus; flexible work; up to 6% 401K matching.
Responsibilities:
- Lead novel target identification and prioritization using in vitro/in vivo experiments, literature reviews, bioinformatics, functional genomics, and AI/ML; run iterative design-test-learn and active learning cycles.
- Design and deploy high-throughput and multi-modal screening strategies (biochemical, biophysical, cellular) to find novel chemical/biological starting points; use AI-augmented analysis and digital discovery platforms.
- Guide cross-functional teams through early drug discovery from concept through target validation (Computational Sciences, Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Computational Biology, Technical Development, Preclinical Development); develop ML models for hit expansion and property prediction.
- De-risk targets and improve commercial viability via CMC considerations and on-/off-target safety risk assessment; develop biomarker and translational in vitro disease models (incl. CRISPR/Cas9-edited primary cell lines and organoids).
- Manage external CRO/biotech partnerships (e.g., DEL, phage display, yeast display) and stay current with study design, model development, and NAMs.
Qualifications (Minimum):
- Ph.D. in Cell/Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or related field with several years postdoctoral training.
- Industry research and early-stage biotech/drug discovery experience; CRO management; integrated digital discovery and HTS platforms.
- Expertise in target identification/validation (assay development; high-throughput approaches such as DEL/virtual screening).
- Expertise in NAMs (organoids/iPSCs, CRISPR/Cas9 screening) with strong AI/ML and deep learning.
Preferred:
- 3+ years in pharma (preferably animal health); publication record; success leading projects in fast-paced/agile settings.
- Generative AI experience (e.g., ProteinMPNN); statistical/data analysis knowledge; compound library screening; RNA-seq/omics/flow cytometry.
Additional:
- Travel up to 25%; Hybrid at Global Elanco Headquarters (Indianapolis, IN).
Benefits:
- Multiple relocation packages; two weeklong shutdowns; 8-week parental leave; annual bonus; flexible work; up to 6% 401K matching.