Postdoctoral Scientist – Gene Therapy Biodistribution & Molecular Biology; CNS

Position Overview

Eli Lilly and Company is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Drug Delivery and Connected Systems (DDCS) organization, focusing on CNS gene therapy biodistribution and molecular bioanalysis. The role will support the optimization and translational advancement of viral and non‑viral gene therapy platforms for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. The scientist will design and execute preclinical CNS gene therapy programs, collaborate across internal teams, and oversee external CRO‑led studies.

• Lead the design, development, optimization, and execution of biodistribution assays to assess AAVs, LNPs, siRNA distribution, transgene expression, and persistence across CNS and peripheral tissues.
• Apply in‑depth knowledge of vector biology and AAV serotype‑specific biodistribution (AAV9, AAVrh
  10, PHP.eB, etc.) to interpret results.
• Use PCR‑based approaches (qPCR, ddPCR, stem‑loop PCR, vg/dg dose quantification), ELISA, LC–MS, immunohistochemistry, and next‑generation sequencing for vector genome and transcript quantification.
• Ensure assays are fit‑for‑purpose, sensitive, reproducible, and aligned with translational objectives.
• Develop off‑target analysis and DRG toxicology assays.

• Design and execute CNS gene therapy‑focused biodistribution studies, applying Design of Experiments principles.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges related to vector detection, tissue processing, assay performance, or data variability.
• Maintain meticulous experimental documentation to ensure traceability, data integrity, and compliance with DDCS best practices.

• Integrate biodistribution results with PK/PD to inform dose selection, delivery route optimization, and therapeutic index assessment.
• Link molecular readouts to functional, anatomical, and disease‑relevant endpoints for translational strategy discussions.

• Interface with external CROs to design, execute, and oversee in‑vivo gene therapy biodistribution studies in higher vertebrate CNS models.
• Provide scientific oversight of tissue collection, sample processing, and downstream molecular analyses.
• Ensure CRO outputs meet DDCS scientific standards, timelines, and data‑quality expectations.

• Manage and analyze large, multi‑dimensional biodistribution datasets generated from CNS gene therapy studies.
• Perform statistical analysis and generate clear, insightful data visualizations to support project teams.
• Communicate findings through presentations, written summaries, and collaborative scientific discussions.
• Act as a proactive, team‑oriented scientist within the DDCS research environment.

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a closely related life sciences discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in AAV biodistribution analysis and/or molecular bioanalytical assay development.
• Hands‑on expertise in PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, IHC, NGS, and related molecular biology techniques.
• Solid understanding of CNS gene therapy delivery, transgene expression mechanisms, and tissue‑specific biology.
• Ability to independently design experiments, troubleshoot assays, and maintain rigorous scientific documentation.
• Highly motivated, proactive, and collaborative in a research environment.
• Authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis; no visa sponsorship available.

• Knowledge of PK/PD applied to gene therapy biodistribution and expression.
• Spatial transcriptomics / RNAscope for CNS transgene expression mapping.
• Experience with CNS tissues and CNS‑relevant animal models for gene therapy research.
• Integration of biodistribution data with imaging, functional, or efficacy readouts.
• Collaboration with CROs and support of in‑vivo gene therapy studies.
• Familiarity with FDA (2020) long‑term follow‑up guidance, EMA biodistribution reflection papers, and current FDA guidance on intrathecal/systemic AAV safety signals.

• This…