Director, In Vitro Biology – ASCVD & Lipids

Eli Lilly and Company; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 153,000 - 264,000; Full time

Job summary

Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, IN, seeks an experienced in vitro biology laboratory leader to guide a multi-program ASCVD and Kidney Health portfolio. You will set strategy, build and mentor a team, develop cell-based and biochemical assays, and drive candidate selection with cross-functional partners.

The role requires a Ph.D./MD with 6–15+ years in pharma/biotech, hands-on assay development, and a track record in target validation and project leadership.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., Masters or Bachelors in cell biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, vascular biology, lipid metabolism or related field.
• Demonstrated experience leading a laboratory or research group.
• Drug-discovery experience relevant to ASCVD and Kidney Health.
• Strong written and verbal scientific communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the in vitro biology laboratory, set scientific direction and priorities.
• Design and develop cell-based, biochemical, enzymatic and binding assays.
• Oversee assay validation, data quality, and data analysis across programs.
• Define screening cascades, go/no-go decisions and candidate profiles.
• Lead projects across modalities and coordinate with cross-functional teams.
• Ensure timelines are met and resources are allocated efficiently.
• Mentor scientists, set goals, and support career development.
• Represent Lilly in external collaborations and innovation discussions.

Skills

Laboratory leadership

Clincal data interpretation

Scientific communication

Laboratory automation

Target validation

Education

Ph.D./M.D. in relevant life science

12–15+ years pharma/biotech experience (PhD/Master/BSc path)

Tools

Automated liquid handling

SPR/BLI/ITC

High-content imaging

Job description

Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, IN, seeks an experienced in vitro biology laboratory leader to guide a multi-program ASCVD and Kidney Health portfolio. You will set strategy, build and mentor a team, develop cell-based and biochemical assays, and drive candidate selection with cross-functional partners.

The role requires a Ph.D./MD with 6–15+ years in pharma/biotech, hands-on assay development, and a track record in target validation and project leadership.