Director - Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Lilly • Indianapolis, IN

5d • $153,000 - $264,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The successful candidate will have a strong research track record in oligonucleotide chemistry, with demonstrated experience advancing candidates to clinical evaluation. Additionally, they should exhibit strong analytical skills, maintain a systematic approach, and consistently apply data-driven decision-making practices. The scientist will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across key Lilly therapeutic areas (e.g. Neuroscience, Pain/Neuronal Health, Diabetes and Complications, Immunology) to perform experiments to aid development of oligonucleotide drug candidates for the next generation of RNA therapies. They will also have a demonstrated track record of prioritizing people development through inclusive leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to fostering individual growth and team excellence.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in chemistry, or related field, with 7–10+ years of industry experience in oligonucleotide discovery and development

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated track record of delivering drugs to the clinic
• Experience with extra-hepatic delivery of oligonucleotides and conjugates
• Demonstrated skills for data-driven study design, timeline and partner management, competitive intelligence, and resource planning
• Clear and defined management style
• Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and team-player mentality
• Demonstrated initiative and appropriate risk-taking
• High level of organization and attention to detail

Responsibilities

• Hire, develop, and supervise a team of Ph.D.- and associate-level scientists
• Lead the screening, design, and SAR optimization of innovative oligonucleotide constructs—including siRNA, ASOs, and conjugates—to advance differentiated clinical candidates
• Support the integration of AI/ML into oligonucleotide discovery efforts
• Partner with legal to support IP strategy for assigned programs
• Clearly present and summarize results to team members and internal teams
• Contribute to the advancement of technical capabilities within the team, embracing new technologies and applying insights across oligonucleotide discovery challenges
• Demonstrate learning agility by quickly absorbing new scientific concepts, embracing new technologies, and applying insights across diverse oligonucleotide discovery challenges
• Leverage strong communication (oral, written), organizational, collaboration, EQ, and leadership skills
• Keep safety as a top priority at all times, striving toward an interdependent safety culture

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