Scientist - Analytical Method Development (SMDD) - Foundry Readiness

ACS; Indianapolis, Northern (IN, KY); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

ACS in Indianapolis seeks an analytical chemist to join our development group for hands-on lab work (>70% bench). You will develop analytical methods and characterize chemical processes to advance drug candidates from early development to manufacturing readiness.

The role requires practical chromatography experience, strong problem-solving, and the ability to translate analytical data into actionable insights for project teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field; 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize analytical methods to measure purity, potency, and other quality attributes of small molecule drug substances and intermediates.
• Select and implement analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR, MS) to support chemical process development and generate data.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists and process engineers to ensure methods are suitable for GMP labs and manufacturing support.
• Perform laboratory activities with emphasis on safety and technical rigor; follow local policies.
• Identify and apply new scientific concepts; contribute across multiple projects.
• Communicate results clearly to represent technical and business implications.

Skills

Analytical chemistry

Chromatographic method development

Mass spectrometry

NMR spectroscopy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry or related field

Tools

HPLC

GC

NMR

LC-MS

GC-MS

Job description

Synthetic Molecule Design and Development has an exciting opportunity for an analytical chemist to join our development group. In this hands-on laboratory role (>70% bench work), you will develop analytical methods and characterize chemical processes to advance drug candidates from early development through manufacturing readiness. You will expand and apply your expertise in chromatographic method development and leverage complementary techniques (mass spectrometry, NMR) while partnering closely with synthetic chemists and process engineers to solve critical process development challenges. The ideal candidate brings practical chromatography experience, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to translate analytical data into actionable insights for project teams.

Position Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize analytical methods to accurately measure purity, potency, and other critical quality attributes of small molecule drug substances and synthetic intermediates.
• Select and implement appropriate analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR, MS) to support chemical process development—independently generating data that elucidates reaction mechanisms, characterizes kinetic behavior, and identifies process-related impurities.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists and process engineers to ensure analytical methods are suitable for guiding development activities and can be successfully transferred to GMP laboratories for routine testing and manufacturing support.
• Perform laboratory activities with a strong emphasis on safety and technical rigor, while adhering to local policies and procedures.
• Identify and apply new scientific concepts, exhibit strong problem-solving skills, and be self‑motivated to contribute across multiple projects.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills to represent both the technical aspects and business-related implications of your work.
  

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant experience
• Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role, including but not limited to F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, or L-1
  

Additional Skills/Preferences:

• Experience with chromatographic (LC, GC, IC) method development or validation in pharmaceutical, chemical, or regulated industry setting
• Working knowledge of mass spectrometry (LC-MS, GC-MS) and NMR spectroscopy
• Familiarity with chemical process development, synthetic organic chemistry, and rationales for establishing material specifications and testing plans.
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining analytical instrumentation.
• Demonstration of scientific leadership and the ability to influence others.
• Ability to balance multiple responsibilities, prioritize activities, and navigate ambiguity.
  

Additional Information:

• Potential exposure to chemicals, allergens, and loud noises
• Travel: 0 to 10%
• Position Local: Indianapolis, IN; Lilly Technology Center-North (LTC-N)