Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist

Elanco US; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Elanco is seeking a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to guide the design and synthesis of novel small molecules across multiple therapeutic programs. You will partner with Biology, Pharmacology, and DMPK to advance discovery with cutting-edge technologies like DNA-Encoded Libraries and AI-driven design.

The role emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and delivering innovative medicines for animal health, with a hybrid work setup in Indianapolis.

Qualifications

• PhD in Medicinal Chemistry or related field.
• 8–10 years in medicinal chemistry in pharma/biotech animal health.
• Strong SAR, ADME/PK, pharmacology knowledge; lead cross-functional initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Drive design/optimization of novel small molecules using SAR and data integration.
• Lead medicinal chemistry initiatives with Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, etc.
• Collaborate with CROs and internal partners to meet project goals/timelines.
• Navigate external collaborations with CROs and internal teams.
• Utilize DEL, computational chemistry, and AI/ML tools to speed hit-to-lead.
• Contribute to IP strategy with the IP team.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster innovation.

Skills

Modern medicinal chemistry

SAR expertise

Cross-functional collaboration

CRO management

Education

PhD in Medicinal Chemistry

Tools

DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL)

Computational chemistry

AI/ML in design

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.

At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.

Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!

Your Role: Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist

As a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry, you will be a key figure in our small molecule drug discovery engine, guiding the design and synthesis of innovative medicines that improve the health and well-being of animals. You will apply your scientific expertise to advance multiple therapeutic programs, from lead generation to development candidate selection. Partnering with a global, cross‑functional team of scientists, you will leverage cutting‑edge technologies like AI/ML and DNA‑Encoded Libraries to solve complex chemical challenges. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on our discovery portfolio and help shape the future of our growing research team in Indianapolis.

Your Responsibilities:

• Drive the design and optimization of novel small molecules by leveraging advanced synthetic strategies and integrating biological, pharmacological, and ADME/PK data to guide structure‑activity relationship (SAR) campaigns
• Lead medicinal chemistry initiatives within multidisciplinary teams, partnering with Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to drive the strategic progression of drug discovery programs.
• Serve as a key medicinal chemistry figure on multidisciplinary project teams, collaborating with partners in Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to strategically advance discovery programs.
• Direct synthetic chemistry efforts with external Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and internal partners, ensuring the efficient execution of project goals and timelines.
• Leverage cutting‑edge drug discovery technologies, including DNA‑Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, and AI/ML‑enabled tools, to accelerate hit identification and lead optimization.
• Drive IP strategy by exploring novel chemical space and developing patent applications in collaboration with the IP team.
• Promote scientific excellence and data integrity while providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):

• Education: PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience: A minimum of 8-10 years of relevant industry experience in medicinal chemistry within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or animal health research environment.
• Top Skills: Demonstrated expertise in modern medicinal chemistry, including the design and multi‑step synthesis of complex small molecules, and a strong understanding of Structure‑Activity Relationships (SAR), pharmacology, and ADME/PK principles. Proven ability to autonomously manage scientific initiatives within a cross‑functional team and manage external collaborations with CROs.

What will give you a strong candidate profile (preferred qualifications):

• Postdoctoral experience.
• Experience applying modern drug discovery technologies such as DNA‑Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, or AI/ML‑enabled molecular design.
• A strong track record of advancing small‑molecule discovery programs toward preclinical development, evidenced by significant patent and/or publication contributions.
• Prior research experience in the animal health industry.
• Expertise in peptide chemistry, macrocycles, or related drug modalities.

Additional Information:

• Travel: Less than 10%
• Location: Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN - Hybrid Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!

Elanco Benefits and Perks:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well‑being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights inclu