Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist
Elanco
Summary
As a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry, you will be a key figure in our small molecule drug discovery engine, guiding the design and synthesis of innovative medicines that improve the health and well-being of animals. You will apply your scientific expertise to advance multiple therapeutic programs, from lead generation to development candidate selection. Partnering with a global, cross-functional team of scientists, you will leverage cutting-edge technologies like AI/ML and DNA-Encoded Libraries to solve complex chemical challenges.
Job description
Your Responsibilities
- Drive the design and optimization of novel small molecules by leveraging advanced synthetic strategies and integrating biological, pharmacological, and ADME/PK data to guide structure-activity relationship (SAR) campaigns
- Lead medicinal chemistry initiatives within multidisciplinary teams, partnering with Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to drive the strategic progression of drug discovery programs
- Serve as a key medicinal chemistry figure on multidisciplinary project teams, collaborating with partners in Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to strategically advance discovery programs
- Direct synthetic chemistry efforts with external Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and internal partners, ensuring the efficient execution of project goals and timelines
- Leverage cutting-edge drug discovery technologies, including DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, and AI/ML-enabled tools, to accelerate hit identification and lead optimization
- Drive IP strategy by exploring novel chemical space and developing patent applications in collaboration with the IP team
- Promote scientific excellence and data integrity while providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration
What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications)
- Education: PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline
- Experience: A minimum of 8-10 years of relevant industry experience in medicinal chemistry within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or animal health research environment
- Top Skills: Demonstrated expertise in modern medicinal chemistry, including the design and multi-step synthesis of complex small molecules, and a strong understanding of Structure-Activity Relationships (SAR), pharmacology, and ADME/PK principles
- Proven ability to autonomously manage scientific initiatives within a cross-functional team and manage external collaborations with CROs
What will give you a strong candidate profile (preferred qualifications)
- Postdoctoral experience
- Experience applying modern drug discovery technologies such as DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, or AI/ML-enabled molecular design
- A strong track record of advancing small-molecule discovery programs toward preclinical development, evidenced by significant patent and/or publication contributions
- Prior research experience in the animal health industry
- Expertise in peptide chemistry, macrocycles, or related drug modalities
Requirements
- PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline
- Minimum of 8-10 years of relevant industry experience in medicinal chemistry within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or animal health research environment
- Demonstrated expertise in modern medicinal chemistry, including the design and multi-step synthesis of complex small molecules
- Strong understanding of Structure-Activity Relationships (SAR), pharmacology, and ADME/PK principles
- Proven ability to autonomously manage scientific initiatives within a cross-functional team
- Proven ability to manage external collaborations with CROs
- Postdoctoral experience (preferred)
- Experience with DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, or AI/ML-enabled molecular design (preferred)
- Track record of advancing small-molecule discovery programs toward preclinical development (preferred)
- Prior research experience in the animal health industry (preferred)
- Expertise in peptide chemistry, macrocycles, or related drug modalities (preferred)
Benefits
- Relocation packages
- Two weeklong shutdowns
- 8-week parental leave
- Employee Resource Groups
- Annual bonus
- Flexible work arrangements
- Up to 6% 401K matching
Company overview
Elanco Animal Health Incorporated is a global leader in the animal health pharmaceutical industry, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of both pets and farm animals worldwide. Founded in 1954 as a division of Eli Lilly and Company, Elanco became an independent public company in 2018 and has since grown to become the world's second-largest independent animal health company. With approximately 9,000 employees globally, the company operates with a clear purpose: 'making life better for animals, makes life better.' Elanco develops innovative medicines, vaccines, and health solutions that empower veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners to advance animal care. The company maintains a balanced portfolio between pet health and farm animal products, offering over 200 brands that address critical health challenges ranging from companion animal diseases to livestock productivity. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Elanco is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ELAN) and continues to drive innovation in animal health through strategic acquisitions and dedicated research and development efforts.