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Sr Scientist/Principal Scientist, Discovery Oncology (in vivo Biology)

Eli Lilly and Company
August 25, 2026
On-site
San Francisco, CA
Clinical Research and Development
Position Summary
- Design, execute, and interpret in vivo (mouse and rat) studies (with supporting ex vivo/in vitro assays) to identify and validate novel druggable oncology targets, de-risk on-target toxicity, and advance targets into the formal discovery portfolio.

Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and interpret in vivo studies (xenograft, syngeneic, and/or PDX) to evaluate tumor progression, target engagement, and efficacy.
- Conduct in vivo genetic or pharmacological perturbation studies to define mechanism of action.
- Run in vivo studies to de-risk on-target toxicity in early discovery programs.
- Harvest/process/analyze tumor and tissue samples; coordinate histopathology as needed.
- Perform routine in vitro cell culture and biochemical/cellular assays (e.g., PCR, immunoblotting, ELISA).
- Troubleshoot technical issues independently; resolve technical roadblocks.
- Oversee mouse/rat colony management (breeding strategy, genotyping, IACUC compliance).
- Analyze data and present results; partner cross-functionally to advance programs.
- Mentor junior scientists in in vivo techniques and best practices.
- Maintain a safe, efficient, compliant vivarium/lab environment.

Basic Requirements
- MS (biology-related) with 3–5 years relevant experience OR BS (biology-related) with 5–8 years; Ph.D. not considered.
- Authorized to work in the United States full-time; no visa sponsorship.

Additional Preferences / Skills
- Hands-on mouse in vivo experience; rat models a plus.
- Oncology tumor models experience (xenograft, syngeneic, GEMM, and/or PDX).
- Routine molecular/cellular biology knowledge; strong organization/documentation.
- Communication and collaboration skills.
- Preferred: gene editing (e.g., CRISPR RNPs), in vivo imaging (bioluminescence/MRI), histology/IHC/basic pathology.

Compensation/Benefits (as stated)
- Anticipated pay: $71,250–$187,000; full-time bonus eligibility; comprehensive benefits including 401(k), pension, medical/dental/vision, flexible benefits, life insurance, time off/leave, and well-being benefits.