Principle Scientist Investigative Toxicology Full-time NEW

Principal Scientist – Investigative Toxicology

Eli Lilly is seeking a motivated and meticulous scientist to join the Investigative Toxicology team. This is a hands-on laboratory role focused on generating high-quality in vitro data to support mechanism-based toxicology investigations and candidate selection across the drug discovery pipeline.

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced toxicologists and cross-functional partners to implement in vitro assays involving mammalian cell culture, biochemical techniques, and molecular/cell biology methods, while developing a strong foundation in investigative toxicology.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine mammalian cell culture, including maintenance, expansion, and experimental execution using established cell lines and sophisticated cellular systems.
• Implement established biochemical, molecular, and cellular assays to support mechanistic investigation of potential toxicities, including techniques such as protein and gene expression analysis (e.g., Western blotting, qPCR), ELISAs, microscopy‑based assays, and cell‑based functional assays.
• Support non-GLP investigative toxicology studies by generating, documenting, and organizing high-quality in vitro data for interpretation by experienced scientists.
• Contribute to studies evaluating organ-specific toxicities (e.g., gastrointestinal, hematopoietic, dermal, or other target-relevant systems) using cell-based and emerging in vitro models.
• Maintain accurate electronic laboratory notebooks, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and compliance with internal standards.
• Assist with data analysis, figure preparation, and summarization of results for internal reports, presentations, and team discussions.
• Collaborate with internal scientists and, when appropriate, support internally led collaborations with external CRO partners.
• Follow all laboratory safety, quality, and compliance guidelines, contributing to a safe and organized laboratory environment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's with 5 years or Master's degree with 3 years experience in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Toxicology, or a related scientific discipline
• Experience with mammalian cell culture obtained through academic research, industry experience, or internships.
• Experience with biochemical and molecular biology techniques, such as Western blotting, qPCR, cell-based assays, and fluorescence/confocal microscopy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to follow protocols, troubleshoot routine experiments, and work independently with appropriate supervision.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to maintain clear experimental records.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for detailing and discussing experimental results.
• Prior experience in an industry or CRO laboratory environment.
• Exposure to toxicology, pharmacology, or drug discovery research.
• Familiarity with routine and emerging in vitro models used in safety assessment.
• Experience working in a highly collaborative, team-based research setting.

Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form for further assistance.

Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Our employee resource groups (ERGs) offer strong support networks for their members and are open to all employees.

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is $65,250 – $169,400.