Scientist - Mass Spectrometry

Job Title

Scientist – Mass Spectrometry

Lilly

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

The LIGM RNA Group is seeking an experienced analytical scientist with extensive hands‑on experience in analytical techniques for characterizing and analyzing small molecules, biologics, and/or oligonucleotides. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in analytical method development and troubleshooting, as well as experience with liquid chromatography, (high‑resolution) mass spectrometry, and other advanced analytical techniques.

• Work closely with the chemistry team to source, explore, and implement the latest separation science and analytical technologies for the purification and characterization of oligonucleotides and their conjugates, including carbohydrates, lipids, peptides, and proteins.
• Conduct LC and LC‑MS based method development for sensitive characterization of biologics including intact mass, reduced mass, peptide mapping, and glycan mapping to provide better understanding of attributes.
• Conduct semi‑preparative and preparative method development activities to advance downstream processing for challenging modified oligonucleotides, utilizing RP purification, ion‑exchange chromatography, spin filtration, TFF, FPLC, size exclusion chromatography, and MS‑direct auto‑scale preparative LC‑MS techniques.
• Work with contractors and third‑party vendors to troubleshoot and maintain lab instruments, including but not limited to UPLC, LC‑MS, osmometer, and Nano Drop, ensuring they remain in peak operational condition.
• Learn new technologies quickly and apply effective scientific concepts and methods across multiple areas.
• Process and present data leveraging Microsoft Office apps, Graph Pad, and Spotfire for data organization and data visualization.
• Document experiments, data, technical reports, and findings electronically in an accessible manner with good documentation practices.
• Present findings, progress, and data proactively and regularly in group and department meetings.
• Possess a collaborative and willing‑to‑share mindset with excellent verbal and written communication skills, presentation skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow Global Health, Safety & Environment Center (HSE) guidelines while performing tasks.

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Food Science, or a related scientific field, with over 2 years of relevant post‑graduate experience in industry.

• Strong analytical thinking skills with a demonstrated ability to articulate issues and extract and synthesize complex information into key focus areas.
• Extensive experience in operating and troubleshooting a range of mass spectrometers including Q‑ToF, QQQ and Orbitrap.
• Proficient with Thermo XCalibur, Agilent Chem Station and Mass Hunter software.
• Understanding of tandem mass spectrometry and interpretation of MS/MS based characterization of peptide, peptide‑oligonucleotide conjugates, and lipid conjugates.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in downstream workflows for small molecules, biologics, and oligonucleotides. Experience with antibody‑drug‑conjugates (ADCs) or antibody‑oligonucleotide‑conjugates (AOCs) is a plus.
• Proven expertise in liquid chromatography including ion‑pair reverse phase liquid chromatography as well as ion chromatography.
• Prior experience in native mass spectrometry and understanding of electrospray ionization as well as molecular behavior in the gas phase.
• Prior experience in proteomics, bioanalysis, and/or CMC is a significant advantage.
• Highly self‑motivated and self‑driven attitude with ability to own and drive projects into success.
• Strong organizational and communication skills and effective people skills.
• Capable of continuous learning, open‑minded, highly organized, and detail oriented.
• Ability to balance multiple activities, prioritize and handle ambiguity.

$71,250 – $187,000

Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company‑sponsored…