Senior Medicinal Chemist - Small Molecule Discovery (Hybrid)

Elanco; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation packages

Two weeklong shutdowns

Parental leave

Employee Resource Groups

Job summary

Elanco in Indianapolis, IN seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to lead design and synthesis of innovative small molecules across therapeutic programs. You will guide SAR-driven campaigns and collaborate with Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences.

Utilize DEL, AI/ML-enabled design, and modern drug discovery technologies, mentor junior scientists, and help advance programs toward preclinical development while contributing to IP strategy and CRO

Qualifications

• PhD in Medicinal Chemistry or related field.
• 8–10 years of industry medicinal chemistry experience.
• Expertise in modern medicinal chemistry, SAR, pharmacology, and ADME/PK.

Responsibilities

• Drive design and optimization of novel small molecules guided by SAR and data from biological, pharmacological, and ADME/PK studies.
• Lead medicinal chemistry initiatives within multidisciplinary teams across Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences.
• Collaborate with external CROs and internal partners to advance discovery programs on schedule.
• Leverage DEL, computational chemistry, and AI/ML tools to accelerate hit identification and lead optimization.
• Contribute to IP strategy by exploring novel chemical space and filing patents with the IP team.
• Mentor and develop junior scientists to foster a culture of innovation and scientific excellence.

Skills

Medicinal chemistry

SAR expertise

ADME/PK knowledge

Education

PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related field

Tools

DEL

Computational chemistry

AI/ML tools

Job description

Elanco in Indianapolis, IN seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry to lead design and synthesis of innovative small molecules across therapeutic programs. You will guide SAR-driven campaigns and collaborate with Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences.

Utilize DEL, AI/ML-enabled design, and modern drug discovery technologies, mentor junior scientists, and help advance programs toward preclinical development while contributing to IP strategy and CRO