Post-Doctoral Scientist – Delivery, Devices & Connected Solutions; DDCS Inhaled Drug Formulati

Position Overview

We are seeking an ambitious post‑doctoral scientist with strong research and communication skills to contribute to highly visible research projects in pulmonary and nasal delivery through computational model development.

• Design and execute in vitro aerosol characterization experiments using pulmonary and nasal device platforms, including droplet size distribution (laser diffraction, cascade impaction), delivered dose, and delivery efficiency assessments.
• Develop, validate, and apply computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or physiologically based pharmacokinetic/deposition (PBPK/PBPD) models to predict regional aerosol deposition across patient‑representative airway geometries.
• Integrate experimental aerosol data with in‑silico deposition predictions to support formulation optimization and design space definition.
• Develop and validate IVIVC frameworks linking in vitro aerosol metrics (MMAD, FPF, delivered dose) to predicted in vivo regional deposition and, where feasible, to pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic endpoints.
• Apply uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis to computational models to characterize inter‑subject and inter‑effort variability in predicted deposition outcomes.
• Collaborate with formulation scientists, device engineers, and translational scientists to interpret results and generate actionable insights.
• Communicate findings through internal technical reports, cross‑functional presentations, and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Participate in structured mentorship and professional development programming within Lilly’s postdoctoral research community.

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Aerosol Science, or a closely related field conferred within the past three years.
• Hands‑on experience with pulmonary and/or nasal device characterization techniques (e.g., next‑generation impactor [NGI], laser diffraction, DUSA) and/or experimental fluid dynamics.
• Demonstrated proficiency in computational modeling of aerosol transport and/or deposition (e.g., CFD using ANSYS Fluent/OpenFOAM, or lung deposition models such as MPPD).
• Strong publication record commensurate with career stage.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced, matrix‑based environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis;
  Lilly will not provide visa sponsorship.

• Experience with realistic or idealized airway geometry models (e.g., Weibel, stochastic, or CT‑derived anatomical models).
• Prior industry internship or academic‑industry collaborative research experience.
• Self‑directed and highly motivated with a desire to learn new techniques while pursuing research and publication goals.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with presentation experience.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting.

This is a fixed‑term role for one year, extendable up to four years, with eligibility to apply for full‑time positions upon completion.

Employees will be eligible for a comprehensive benefit program, including 401(k) participation, pension, vacation, medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, leave of absence, employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities.

The anticipated wage for this position is $58,000 – $123,200. Full‑time employees will also be eligible for a company bonus depending on performance.

Elixir is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.