Director of Target Discovery & Intelligence

Indiana Ag Connection; Indianapolis, Northern (IN, KY); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation packages

401K matching

Parental leave

Employee Resource Groups

Job summary

Elanco is seeking a Target Intelligence & Discovery Lead to steer the early pipeline from target discovery through validation, ensuring high-integrity targets and translation-ready biomarkers. You will manage a diverse team and partner with AI/ML groups to accelerate innovative targets in animal health.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD in a related field with 10+ years in discovery research, plus a track record in leadership and strategic oversight of complex, cross-functional programs.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology or related field.
• 10+ years in discovery research within pharma/animal health, with target ID/validation focus.
• Proven leadership of scientific teams and strategic project oversight.
• Strong background in AI/ML predictive modeling and 3D cell models.

Responsibilities

• Lead discovery pipeline targeting validation and early-stage program decisions.
• Oversee target intelligence to identify novel targets and validate mechanisms.
• Partner with AI/ML teams to integrate predictive modeling for safety and efficacy.
• Define discovery strategy and modality plans across programs.

Skills

People leadership

AI/ML modeling

Organoids

IP strategy

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology/related

Job description

Elanco is seeking a Target Intelligence & Discovery Lead to steer the early pipeline from target discovery through validation, ensuring high-integrity targets and translation-ready biomarkers. You will manage a diverse team and partner with AI/ML groups to accelerate innovative targets in animal health.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD in a related field with 10+ years in discovery research, plus a track record in leadership and strategic oversight of complex, cross-functional programs.