Advisor, Viral Vector Process Development and Molecular Biology

Lilly • Boston, MA

3d • $138,000 - $224,400 • Onsite

About The Position

At Eli Lilly, we are advancing transformative gene therapies to address serious unmet medical needs. We are looking for a talented Advisor / Senior Advisor, Process Development to join our team and play a critical role in shaping the future of viral vector manufacturing. In this role, you will combine deep expertise in molecular biology with process development to design and optimize cutting-edge viral vector production systems. You’ll collaborate with a highly cross-functional team to bring innovative gene therapy products from concept to reality.

Requirements

• PhD in molecular biology, cell biology, virology, biochemistry, or related field with OR Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant industry experience
• Hands-on expertise in molecular biology and cloning techniques
• Experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory environment

Nice To Haves

• Deep experience in plasmid design (e.g., ITR configurations, helper plasmids, transgene cassette optimization)
• Background in gene therapy or viral vectors (e.g., AAV, lentivirus)
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and cell line development
• Familiarity with analytical readouts (ddPCR, genome integrity, full/empty characterization) and how they inform process decisions
• Proficiency in data analysis, interpretation, and presentation
• Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on mechanistic understanding, not just empiricism
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex science into clear insights

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize viral vector production systems, including plasmid architecture, transfection strategies and vector genome configurations.
• Lead upstream development efforts, optimizing culture performance, yield, and product quality
• Drive cell line and producer system development, including characterization and improvement initiatives
• Partner across functions (analytical, formulation, CMC, external collaborators) to accelerate development
• Author technical and regulatory documentation (reports, protocols, IND-enabling content)
• Mentor and develop junior scientists, contributing to a strong, collaborative team culture
• Stay at the forefront of innovation, integrating emerging technologies and industry best practices

Benefits

• company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance)
• company-sponsored 401(k)
• pension
• vacation benefits
• medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits
• flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts)
• life insurance and death benefits
• certain time off and leave of absence benefits
• well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree