Eli Lilly

Advisor, Downstream Process Development - Viral Vectors

Eli Lilly$138K — $202K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or related field; Ph.D. requires 2 years of experience, M.S. requires 10 years of experience.
  • Hands-on experience with chromatography and membrane-based separations.
  • Fundamental understanding of chromatography principles.
  • Proficiency in statistical analysis tools like JMP or Minitab.
  • Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced work environment.

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute AAV purification experiments using various techniques.
  • Develop and implement innovative AAV purification methodologies.
  • Utilize mechanistic chromatography models for process optimization.
  • Collaborate across teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and clinical manufacturing success.
  • Present findings at meetings, conferences, and contribute to publications.
  • Author and review technical documents for regulatory filings.
  • Mentor junior scientists to promote a culture of excellence.

Benefits

  • Participation in a company-sponsored 401(k) and pension plan.
  • Vacation benefits and flexible healthcare spending accounts.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Life insurance and death benefits.
  • Access to well-being benefits and employee assistance programs.
Full Job Description
Position Overview

The Downstream Process Development team is seeking a highly motivated scientist to drive innovation in viral vector purification. The successful candidate will lead platform development to advance DSP capabilities for recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy products, supporting programs from early development through GMP manufacturing and regulatory submission; collaborating with Analytical Development, CMC Regulatory, and MFG to deliver robust, scalable and efficient manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and execute downstream process development experiments for AAV purification, including affinity capture, ion-exchange chromatography, ultrafiltration/diafiltration, viral filtration, and ultracentrifugation
  • Develop and implement novel AAV purification strategies; establish DSP operating principles and process understanding across diverse serotypes.
  • Develop and apply mechanistic chromatography models to predict column performance, guide operating condition selection, and accelerate scale-up decisions, enabling rapid initiation of new gene therapy programs.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with upstream process development, analytical development, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure seamless technology transfer and successful clinical manufacturing.
  • Present experimental findings at internal team meetings, cross-functional reviews, and external conferences; contribute to scientific publications and patent applications as appropriate.
  • Author and review technical documents including process descriptions, batch records, process characterization reports, and CMC sections of IND/BLA filings.
  • Mentor junior scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous improvement.


Basic Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related scientific discipline with at least 2 years of relevant experience in downstream process development for biologics or gene therapy products, OR M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Bioengineering, or a related scientific discipline with at least 10 years of relevant industry experience
  • Extensive hands-on experience with various protein purification techniques: chromatography (affinity, ion exchange, HIC) and membrane-based separations (UF/DF, depth filtration).
  • Demonstrated fundamental understanding of chromatography principles
  • Proficiency in statistical design of experiments (JMP, Minitab) and data analysis.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively present complex scientific information.
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced environment


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with recombinant AAV or other viral vector purification (lentivirus, adenovirus).
  • Experience with automation platforms for HTP process screening
  • Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB for data analysis, model implementation, and automation scripting
  • Knowledge of machine learning / multivariate analysis applied to bioprocess data
  • Strong understanding of viral vector biology, expression systems, and analytical methods used for viral vector characterization.

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$138,000 - $202,400

Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

#WeAreLilly

About Eli Lilly

ICOS Corporation is a biotechnology company that engages in the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutic products. It is engaged in the commercialization of treatments for unmet medical conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. It is the developer of a treatment known as Cialis (tadalafil), a product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction through its joint venture with Eli Lilly and Company in North America and Europe. It is also engaged in contract manufacturing services for third parties. It is in a strategic alliance with Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ICOS Corporation was established in 1989, based in Bothell, Washington. It is currently operated by Eli Lilly and Company.

Eli Lilly Careers

Joining Eli Lilly offers an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a leading global team dedicated to creating a healthier future. As a company revered for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the pharmaceutical industry, Eli Lilly is where your professional journey can flourish. Work You’ll Do At Eli Lilly, we are passionate about transforming patient care and advancing medical innovation. Our team at Eli Lilly is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking solutions in healthcare. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using cutting-edge technology to make real-world impacts. Lead with Innovation and Leadership Eli Lilly stands out in the marketplace by integrating deep industry expertise with robust research and development efforts. We are looking for professionals who are eager to drive change and lead the way in developing therapeutic breakthroughs. Explore Job Opportunities and Growth Eli Lilly offers a variety of career paths, including full-time positions and internships, across multiple functions such as research, marketing, IT, and sales. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Eli Lilly provides an environment that promotes career growth and learning opportunities. Our commitment to diversity and leadership training ensures that every employee can achieve their potential. Be Part of Our Team Our team at Eli Lilly is committed to excellence and driven by a mission to improve lives. Employees enjoy a supportive culture that values collaboration, creativity, and diversity. We believe that a diverse workforce fosters innovation and helps us better connect with the communities we serve. Benefits and Culture Eli Lilly is dedicated to supporting our employees, offering competitive benefits, wellness programs, and comprehensive health care. Our culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and quality, making Eli Lilly not just a great place to work, but a community to grow with. Networking and Professional Development Eli Lilly encourages continuous professional development and networking. With access to various training programs and mentorship opportunities, employees can enhance their skills and advance their careers. Our leadership is committed to nurturing talent through effective training and development strategies. Join Our Team Discover the exciting job opportunities at Eli Lilly by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, innovative, and ready to contribute to our mission of making life better for people around the globe. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest at Eli Lilly by following our careers blog. Gain insights from industry leaders and get tips on everything from crafting the perfect resume to preparing for your interview. Eli Lilly is not just a company—it's a place where you can make a difference. Explore the positions available and find out how your talents can help change the world. SEARCH ELI LILLY JOBS Stay ahead in your career with Eli Lilly, where innovation, leadership, and a commitment to diversity and growth lead the way to future advancements.
Learn more about Eli Lilly
Size
35,000 employees
Market Cap
$344.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.1 billion
Founded
1876
5 Year Trend
+5.9%
Revenue
$24.5 billion
NASDAQ

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