Research Scientist – Biopharma Analytical Characterization at Elanco in greenfield, Indiana

Job Description:

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) – it all starts with animals!

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. We’re driven by our vision of ‘Food and Companionship Enriching Life’ and our approach to sustainability – the Elanco Healthy Purpose™ – to advance the health of animals, people, the planet and our enterprise.

At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you’ll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.

Making animals’ lives better makes life better – join our team today!

Your Role: Research Scientist – Biopharma Analytical Characterization

The Research Scientist will play a pivotal role on dynamic team focused on advancing biophysical characterizations and cell-based assays within the realm of biolayer interferometry (BLI), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and functional assays utilizing luciferase reporter cells. They will spearhead the conceptualization, development, and execution of these assays to facilitate critical insights into protein-protein interactions and functional activity of biotherapeutic molecules. This position is laboratory-based and will require routine interaction with associate and senior scientists across multiple Research & Development laboratories at Elanco.  The incumbent scientist will be expected to support multiple projects at any given time. The ability to independently devise and execute experiments, including troubleshooting, coupled with a “can do” attitude, is essential. 

Your Responsibilities:

• Conceptualize, develop, and execute biophysical characterizations utilizing BLI/SPR techniques, demonstrating mastery in both direct immobilization and capture formats to assess protein-protein interactions.




• Design independent BLI/SPR methods tailored to project needs, showcasing expertise in experimental design and execution.




• Analyze and interpret BLI/SPR data autonomously, aligning conclusions with project objectives and driving forward project initiatives.




• Proficiently conduct mammalian cell culture and employ luciferase reporter assays to evaluate antibody functional activity.




• Generate hypotheses, troubleshoot experimental issues, and design subsequent experiments with guidance from senior lab members/manager.




• Provide thorough data analysis to evaluate experimental outcomes.




• Effectively present research findings and actively contribute to project teams and laboratory meetings, fostering collaborative discourse and constructive engagement.




• Demonstrate proficiency at data reporting, interpretation, and trending.




• Demonstrate good documentation skills regarding raw data recording and protocol authoring

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):

• Education: PhD or MS degree in a relevant field such as Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology, Microbiology, or Immunology showcasing a deep understanding of fundamental biological principles.




• Required Experience: At least 2 years of experience working on R&D projects in the human or animal health industries.




• Top Skills: Extensive hands-on experience with biophysical characterization techniques, specifically BLI and SPR, demonstrating proficiency in experimental design and data interpretation; Strong background in mammalian cell culture and cell-based reporter assays, with a track record of effectively applying these techniques to assess functional properties of biological molecules; Exceptional analytical skills and aptitude for drawing meaningful conclusions from complex datasets, showcasing a keen scientific mindset; Excellent presentation and communication abilities, enabling clear articulation of research findings and fostering productive collaboration within multidisciplinary teams; Demonstrated ability to thrive in a team-based environment, exhibiting adaptability, resourcefulness, and a collaborative spirit essential for success in a dynamic research setting.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):

• Experience in mentoring and supervising junior team members, showcasing leadership capabilities and a commitment to fostering the growth and development of others.




• Experience with any of the diverse range of biophysical characterization techniques beyond BLI and SPR, including but not limited to HPLC methods, dynamic light scattering (DLS), differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) or calorimetry (DSC), capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF), or ultra-high-resolution capillary electrophoresis-sodium dodecyl sulfate (uCE-SDS).

Additional Information:

• Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Greenfield, IN - Hybrid Work Environment

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrepresented groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!

Elanco Benefits and Perks:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:

• Multiple relocation packages




• Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)




• 8-week parental leave




• 9 Employee Resource Groups




• Annual bonus offering




• Flexible work arrangements




• Up to 6% 401K matching

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status