Eli Lilly

Director/Senior Director Cell Line Development

Eli Lilly$153K — $264K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field with 6+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience
  • Expertise in mammalian cell culture and related methodologies
  • Experience with lab automation and digital tools integration into CLD workflows
  • Proficiency in CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and molecular analytical tools
  • Knowledge of CMC regulatory expectations for cell line development
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and guide scientific teams
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration and project planning skills

Responsibilities

  • Lead technical strategy for CHO cell line development and enhance large-molecule portfolio
  • Evaluate and implement new molecular, automation, and analytical technologies
  • Pioneer AI/ML applications to boost clone selection and decision-making
  • Act as cell line development lead on CMC teams for rapid pipeline advancement
  • Mentor scientists and research associates to establish best practices
  • Author and review regulatory submissions for cell line development
  • Foster external collaborations to explore emerging technologies
  • Present scientific findings to internal and external audiences

Benefits

  • Participation in a company-sponsored 401(k) and pension plan
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
  • Life insurance and death benefits
  • Generous vacation and paid leave policies
  • Wellness benefits including employee assistance programs and fitness initiatives
Full Job Description
The Upstream Bioprocess Research and Development team (BR&D) within Lilly delivers new medicines to patients through the development and commercialization of insulins, peptides, oligonucleotides, monoclonal antibodies, and novel gene therapy systems. The Senior Advisor Scientist will lead the advancement of the cell line development platform, setting technical strategy and driving the innovation that strengthens Lilly's pipeline programs. The successful candidate will also mentor and develop scientific talent, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead the technical strategy for Lilly CHO cell line development platform by advancing the technical capabilities and workflows that enable the large-molecule portfolio.
  • Evaluate and deploy emerging molecular, automation, and analytical technologies that increase cell line productivity, enhance target product quality, and shorten CLD timelines.
  • Champion AI/ML across the CLG workflow to accelerate clone selection and enhance data-driven decision-making.
  • Serve as the cell line development lead on cross-functional CMC teams, translating platform advances into faster, more robust delivery across the large molecule pipeline.
  • Mentor and develop scientists and research associates, to establish best practices and data standards that scale the group's capability.
  • Author and review the technical reports and regulatory documentation (IND, BLA) that carry cell line development through submission.
  • Build and lead external collaborations through academic partnerships and industry consortia to scout and evaluate emerging cell line development technologies.
  • Present scientific findings internally and externally through conferences and peer-reviewed publications, strengthening Lilly's reputation in cell line engineering.


Basic Requirements:
  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related field with 6+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience, with a sustained record of platform leadership and technical mentoring.
  • Hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture, transfection, clone screening, stability assessment, and cell banking.
  • Experience integrating lab automation, high-throughput screening, and digital tools into CLD workflows, including FACS, microfluidic screening, and ambr micro-bioreactors.
  • Proficiency in CRISPR/Cas9-based genome-editing campaigns and application of molecular analytical tools, such as digital PCR and NGS, to assess gene expression dynamics.
  • Working knowledge of CMC regulatory expectations for cell line development and submission-ready documentation (IND, BLA).
  • Demonstrated ability to coach, and mentor scientists, and set technical direction for a team.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally, plan effectively, and prioritize goals to meet accelerated timelines.


Additional Information/Preferences:
  • Application of AI/ML in cell line or process development to create predictive models for clone productivity, product quality and/or workflow optimization.
  • Hands on experience with protein and product-quality characterization methods, including analytical SEC (aSEC), CE-SDS, and capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF).

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$153,000 - $264,000

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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