Position DescriptionAs the Upstream Senior Research Scientist, you will be a key technical leader in our Technical Development organization, driving the innovation that delivers novel animal health solutions for our customers. In this role, you will be responsible for advancing Elanco's biologics portfolio, including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and vaccines, by leading the design, optimization, and scaling of robust mammalian cell culture processes. Partnering with cross-functional teams, you will shape the future of our upstream platform and directly contribute to bringing next-generation therapies from the lab to the manufacturing floor.
Your Responsibilities:- Lead upstream process development for mammalian cell culture systems, including bioreactor optimization, process characterization, and scale-up from bench to pilot scale.
- Design and execute experiments, utilizing Design of Experiments (DoE) methodologies, to enhance cell culture performance, product yield, and process robustness for fed-batch and/or perfusion-based systems.
- Drive the development of new upstream platforms, including the formulation and optimization of novel basal and feed media for CHO cell culture systems.
- Lead the technology transfer of upstream processes to manufacturing sites, ensuring process scalability, authoring technical documents, and aligning scale-down models with manufacturing equipment.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Downstream, Analytical, Manufacturing) and provide technical mentorship to junior scientists to advance biologics production.
What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):- Education: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related scientific field; OR a Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant experience; OR a Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Experience: Hands-on experience in upstream process development for mammalian cell culture (e.g., CHO systems), including direct experience with bioreactor operations at the bench or pilot scale.
- Technical Skills: Demonstrated ability to apply scientific principles to solve process development challenges, coupled with a foundational knowledge of experimental design (DoE), data analysis, and process scale-up principles.
What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):- Direct experience with fed-batch or perfusion processes for monoclonal antibody or recombinant protein production.
- Proven success in technology transfer, process characterization, and working within a cGMP-regulated environment.
- Familiarity with the development, optimization, and evaluation of cell culture media.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams and a passion for mentoring junior scientists.
- Experience in the Animal Health industry.
Additional Information- Travel: Approximately 10%
- Work Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized 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!
