Elanco Animal Health

Senior Research Scientist

Elanco Animal Health • $110K — $130K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Biology, Veterinary Medicine, Parasitology, or related field.
  • Minimum 4 years of industrial R&D experience in a project leadership role.
  • Expertise in target identification and validation in Animal Health or Pharma.
  • Proven ability to lead complex cross-functional teams without direct authority.
  • Strong skills in data interpretation and decision-making.

Responsibilities

  • Lead research to identify and validate novel targets using multi-omics and functional models.
  • Drive discovery programs from concept to candidate selection, ensuring scientific rigor.
  • Lead multi-functional international teams to facilitate seamless candidate transitions.
  • Oversee generation and interpretation of complex biological datasets for decision-making.
  • Manage strategic networks with academia and contract research organizations.

Benefits

  • Multiple relocation packages.
  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in addition to PTO.
  • 8-week parental leave.
  • 9 Employee Resource Groups.
  • Annual bonus offering.
  • Flexible work arrangements.
  • Up to 6% 401K matching.
Full Job Description
Your Role: Research Scientist / Project Leader

As a Research Scientist / Project Leader on our Discovery Parasiticides team, you will architect the future of animal health by playing a pivotal role in the early research phase. You will spearhead the identification of next-generation molecular hits against endo- and ectoparasites. In this role, you will lead the discovery and interpretation of critical in vitro and in vivo data, championing the selection process for New Molecular Entities (NME) and ensuring a robust pipeline for both Pet Health and Farm Animals.

Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead research activities to identify and validate novel targets using multi-omics (transcriptomics, proteomics) and functional models for small/large molecules and vaccines.
  • Drive discovery programs from concept to candidate selection, ensuring scientific rigor and meeting timeline milestones for next-generation parasiticides.
  • Lead multi-functional, international teams to influence selection and transition candidates seamlessly into the development pipeline.
  • Oversee the generation and interpretation of complex biological datasets (in vitro/in vivo) to guide high-stakes decision-making.
  • Manage a strategic network with academic institutions and contract research organizations in close collaboration with the External Innovation Team to achieve research goals.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education: PhD in Biology, Veterinary Medicine, Parasitology, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience: A minimum of 4 years of industrial R&D experience in a project leadership capacity.
  • Skills: Proven track record in target identification and validation within Animal Health or Pharma; demonstrated success leading complex cross-functional teams without direct authority.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • Solid understanding of AI/ML and in silico modelling to accelerate discovery.
  • Deep knowledge of parasite biology and modern screening methodologies.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and translate complex data for diverse stakeholders.
  • High resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Additional Information:

  • Location & Work Model: Indianapolis, IN (Global HQ) with a Hybrid work model.
  • Travel: Up to 15% annually.


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

About Elanco Animal Health

Elanco Animal Health is an American pharmaceutical company that develops and produces products for animal health. The company was founded in 1954 and is headquartered in Greenfield, Indiana. Elanco produces a wide range of products for both livestock and pets, including vaccines, antibiotics, and parasiticides. The company operates in more than 90 countries and has a global workforce of over 5,500 employees. Elanco was spun off from Eli Lilly and Company in 2018 and became a publicly traded company in September of that year. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol ELAN.
Learn more about Elanco Animal Health
Size
9,000 employees
Market Cap
$5.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$560 million
5 Year Trend
+10.3%
Revenue
$3.2 billion
NASDAQ

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