Senior Research Scientist – Translational Pharmacology
Elanco
Summary
In this non-laboratory-based (Senior) Research Scientist role in the Non-Clinical Development team, you will drive critical pharmacological strategies in early drug development to profile new chemical and biological entities and advanced therapies. Your focus will be on mitigating clinical development risks by bridging the gap between in vitro screening and clinical efficacy. Working as the translational representative within cross-functional teams, you will apply a deep understanding of target pharmacology and therapeutic options to advance our pipeline assets and translate findings into clinical development scenarios.
Job description
Study Design & Data Synthesis
- Design and coordinate translational pharmacological studies for profiling compounds.
- Analyze drug mechanisms of action, target biology, and disease pathophysiology to generate actionable insights that reduce clinical development risk.
Scientific Oversight of CROs
- Manage the integration of translational R&D by coordinating early in vivo profiling programs across involved disciplines.
- Provide technical oversight for experimental in vivo studies, ensuring the selection of suitable animal disease models for screening and dose prediction.
Biomarker & PK/PD Execution
- Define and implement in vitro and in vivo biomarker strategies for target engagement, pharmacodynamics, and safety.
- Partner with Safety and DMPK experts to initiate PK/PD approaches that provide robust scientific justification for therapeutic dosing.
Translational Analysis
- Execute reverse translational processes by performing meta-analyses of clinical data across species.
- Identify reasons for study failure, evaluate consequences for further development, and uncover new indications for existing portfolio compounds.
Matrix Representation & Scientific Leadership
- Serve as the translational pharmacology subject matter expert (SME) within a complex matrix organization.
- Collaborate with external academic and industry partners to assess in-licensed products.
- Provide clear scientific guidance to Marketing, Business Development, and project teams throughout the innovation process until launch.
- Maintain expertise in the latest professional publications and developments in the animal health industry by attending international scientific meetings.
Requirements
- DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) or PhD in Veterinary Medicine, Medicine, Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field
- 1–3 years of early-career professional experience (including relevant postdoctoral training or residency) in pharmaceutical industry research and/or development
- Demonstrated expertise in In Vivo pharmacology study design
- Strategic identification of biomarkers for clinical translatability
- Background in veterinary internal medicine, dermatology, oncology, pain, metabolic disease, or immunology is highly preferred
- Experience collaborating with external partners such as CROs, KOLs, and consultants
- Strong intercultural and interpersonal skills
- Fluent in English; ability to influence Marketing and Business Development stakeholders effectively
- Connections to local research hubs (e.g., Purdue or IU) encouraged
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.