Senior Research Scientist – Farm Animal Clinical Development, Vaccines and Infectious Diseases
Elanco
Summary
As the Senior Research Scientist – Farm Animal Clinical Development, Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, you will play a pivotal role in advancing Elanco’s farm animal innovation pipeline by designing, coordinating, and executing global host animal safety and efficacy study programs. In this role, you will formulate clinical development plans from inception through approval to deliver next-generation vaccines and therapeutic products to our customers. You will partner closely with cross-functional R&D teams, Regulatory Affairs, and external research partners to translate scientific strategy into high-impact regulatory submissions.
Job description
Your Responsibilities
- Design, author, and execute robust host animal safety and efficacy study protocols and comprehensive clinical development plans in compliance with USDA, GLP, vGCP, and VICH standards.
- Partner with Clinical Development Sciences (CDS) to evaluate, select, and monitor qualified external research facilities, investigators, and contract research organizations (CROs).
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Biostatistics, Regulatory Affairs, Medical Writing, and Quality Assurance to analyze, interpret, and report clinical trial data for global regulatory submissions.
- Serve as a clinical and technical subject matter expert during regulatory agency interactions and scientific conferences, effectively communicating study data and strategy.
- Drive continuous improvement and technical excellence by updating functional procedures, mentoring less experienced colleagues, and staying current with advances in veterinary vaccines and infectious diseases.
What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications)
- Education: Master’s Degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Sciences, Microbiology, Immunology, or related scientific discipline (or Bachelor's Degree with equivalent level of relevant industry experience); DVM or Ph.D. warmly welcomed.
- Required Experience: A minimum of 3 years of experience in veterinary clinical study design, animal health research, or vaccine/biologics product development.
- Key Skills: Proven proficiency in designing host animal safety/efficacy protocols under GxP/VICH-GCP guidelines, combined with strong project organization and cross-functional communication abilities.
What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications)
- DVM and/or Ph.D. in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, Immunology, Virology, or Infectious Diseases.
- 5+ years of direct experience leading farm animal vaccine or therapeutic clinical development programs.
- Demonstrated experience interacting with regulatory agencies (e.g., USDA-CVB, FDA-CVM, EMA) and authoring regulatory dossier sections.
- Hands-on expertise evaluating, selecting, and overseeing external contract research organizations (CROs) and university research facilities.
- Strong strategic mindset with demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific data into regulatory and commercial solutions.
Additional Information
- Travel: 10–20% (Domestic and occasional International travel)
- Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN - Hybrid Work Environment
Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Sciences, Microbiology, Immunology, or related scientific discipline (or Bachelor's Degree with equivalent level of relevant industry experience)
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in veterinary clinical study design, animal health research, or vaccine/biologics product development
- Proven proficiency in designing host animal safety/efficacy protocols under GxP/VICH-GCP guidelines
- Strong project organization and cross-functional communication abilities
Benefits
- Relocation packages
- Two weeklong shutdowns
- Parental leave
- Employee resource groups
- Annual bonus
- Flexible work arrangements
- 401(k) 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.