Eli Lilly and Company logo

Sr. Biologist - Neurodegeneration

Eli Lilly and Company
Remote friendly (Indianapolis, IN)
United States
$65,250 - $169,400 USD yearly
Clinical Research and Development

Role Summary

Sr. Biologist - Neurodegeneration will design, lead, and conduct in vivo studies evaluating blood-brain barrier penetration and efficacy of novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, from study initiation through data delivery. You will perform in vivo dosing and tissue collection to assess CNS exposure and target engagement, and execute study workflows focused on BBB characterization, including pharmacokinetic sampling, brain and plasma collection, and biodistribution analysis. You will perform rodent RNA isolations, RT-qPCR, and biochemical assays to evaluate target engagement and pharmacodynamic responses in brain tissue. You will maintain accurate records in electronic lab notebooks, communicate findings to project leads and cross-functional teams, and ensure compliance with IACUC-approved protocols and high standards of animal welfare and laboratory safety.

Responsibilities

  • Design, lead, and conduct in vivo studies evaluating blood-brain barrier penetration and efficacy of novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, from study initiation through data delivery.
  • Perform core in vivo dosing techniques and tissue collection to assess CNS exposure and target engagement.
  • Execute study-specific workflows focused on blood-brain barrier characterization, including pharmacokinetic sampling, brain and plasma collection, and biodistribution analysis.
  • Perform rodent RNA isolations, RT-qPCR, and biochemical assays (ELISA, Western blot, protein quantification) to evaluate target engagement and pharmacodynamic responses in brain tissue.
  • Maintain accurate, organized records of experimental data, protocols, and sample inventories in electronic lab notebooks.
  • Communicate study progress, blood-brain barrier penetration data, and pharmacological findings clearly to project leads and cross-functional teams.
  • Ensure compliance with IACUC-approved animal protocols and uphold high standards of animal welfare and laboratory safety.

Qualifications

  • Required: 1-2 years' industry experience with Bachelor's degree; 0-1 years' industry experience with a Master's degree.
  • Required: Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Skills

  • Experience with biochemical assays (ELISA, Western blotting, protein quantification).
  • Experience with rodent RNA isolations and RT-qPCR.
  • Experience in rodent handling, dosing, and tissue collection.
  • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
  • Excellent attention to detail, time management, and record-keeping skills.
  • Experience with CSF collection, ICV injections, or stereotaxic surgeries.
  • Familiarity with blood-brain barrier permeability studies or CNS drug delivery approaches.
  • Working knowledge of neurodegenerative disease models (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, ALS).
  • Background in drug discovery or preclinical development, particularly CNS therapeutics.
  • Experience with pharmacokinetic or biodistribution studies in the CNS.
  • Strong documentation, communication, and data presentation skills.

Education

  • BS/MS in Biology, Pharmacology, Animal Sciences, Neuroscience, or related field.