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Scientist / Senior Scientist – Oligonucleotide Analytics

5-8 years
: USD 65,250 – 169,400,
10 Nov. 26, 2025
Job Description
Job Type: Full Time Education: B.Sc./ M.Sc./ M.Pharm/ B.Pharm/ Life Sciences Skills: Causality Assessment, Clinical SAS Programming, Communication Skills, CPC Certified, GCP guidelines, ICD-10 CM Codes, CPT-Codes, HCPCS Codes, ICD-10 CM, CPT, HCPCS Coding, ICH guidelines, ICSR Case Processing, Interpersonal Skill, Labelling Assessment, MedDRA Coding, Medical Billing, Medical Coding, Medical Terminology, Narrative Writing, Research & Development, Technical Skill, Triage of ICSRs, WHO DD Coding

Scientist / Senior Scientist – Oligonucleotide Analytics

Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Category: Research & Development
Job Type: Full Time | Regular
Job ID: R-95828

About the Company

Lilly is a global leader in pharmaceutical innovation, dedicated to improving health outcomes through scientific discovery and advanced therapeutic development. With headquarters in Indianapolis and a worldwide research network, Lilly focuses on developing impactful medicines and delivering meaningful contributions to global healthcare. The organization values scientific excellence, operational integrity, and a people-first culture.


Position Overview

Lilly’s LIGM RNA Group is seeking a skilled and independent Scientist or Senior Scientist specializing in oligonucleotide analytics. This laboratory-based role requires extensive hands-on expertise in LC/MS, analytical method development, and the characterization of oligonucleotides and conjugates. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong scientific agility, problem-solving capabilities, and proven experience in applying cutting-edge analytical technologies in fast-paced research environments.


Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct sample preparation for forced degradation and solution stability studies supporting early-stage developability assessments of oligonucleotides and their conjugates.

  • Characterize solubility and evaluate physical and chemical stability using chromatography, mass spectrometry, thermal analysis, microscopy, light scattering, particle counting, and imaging technologies.

  • Develop and optimize LC/LCMS-based analytical methods to identify impurities and degradants from API and stability samples.

  • Partner with cross-functional teams including Early Phase TIDES and Discovery to support analytical packages for method and project transfers.

  • Identify technical risks and propose mitigation strategies to support drug candidate performance and development.

  • Drive innovation through learning agility, novel analytical approaches, and cross-disciplinary scientific contributions.

  • Engage and influence external scientific partners to enhance collaborations and strengthen Lilly’s internal portfolio.

  • Continuously refine analytical workflows and develop new assays to meet program requirements.

  • Ensure timely documentation of experimental plans, data, and technical reports in electronic laboratory notebooks.

  • Support high laboratory standards with a focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence.

  • Present analytical findings and progress updates in project, departmental, and governance meetings.


Experience Required

  • Master’s degree (M.S.) in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biophysics, Biochemistry, or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in LC/MS analytical characterization,
    OR
    Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) with at least 8 years of relevant experience in LC/MS-based analytical characterization.

  • Proven expertise in analytical method development for oligonucleotides and conjugates.

  • Demonstrated experience with large-scale sample preparation, automated workflows, and analytical instrumentation.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to learn and apply new analytical technologies rapidly.

  • Ability to work independently while delivering high-quality results in fast-paced environments.

  • Experience presenting scientific results and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.


Preferred Skills

  • Knowledge of biopharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics, and phase-appropriate formulation development.

  • Experience with analytical characterization of oligonucleotides, conjugates, and biologics.

  • Proficiency in separation sciences including RP, HILIC, HIC, IEX, SEC, and CE.

  • Expertise with mass spectrometry platforms such as QToF, Orbitrap, and QQQ.

  • Familiarity with advanced imaging and biophysical techniques including light scattering, BLI, and backgrounded membrane imaging.

  • Strong communication, documentation, and scientific writing skills.


Additional Information

  • This position requires eligibility to work in the United States; sponsorship is not available.

  • Lilly offers accommodations for applicants with disabilities through a dedicated support process.

  • Salary range: USD 65,250 – 169,400, based on experience, skills, and location.

  • Full-time employees are eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package, including health coverage, retirement programs, paid time off, and wellness resources.