Scientist - Molecule SMDD Foundry Readiness

Organizational Overview

Synthetic Molecule Design and Development (SMDD) is a critical function within Lilly Product Research & Development (PRD) responsible for the development of synthetic drug substances and drug products from the pre‑clinical phase through commercialization. Process chemistry is crucial to establishing a robust and sustainable supply chain of the synthetic active ingredients that make up Lilly’s portfolio. Our chemists and engineers develop key technical and business solutions across the portfolio using their expertise to accelerate drug development.

SMDD delivers on these responsibilities by recognizing diverse talent and cultures are vital to bring the next generation of medicines to patients.

Our team is looking for creative candidates to drive solutions to scientific problems contributing to our synthetic molecule route design and development portfolio.

In the synthesis of pharmaceutical candidate compounds, this role is to develop chemical processes, which minimize the cost of production while maximizing manufacturing capacity. The position requires a high degree of synthetic organic chemistry skill and excellent problem‑solving capability. The ability to collaborate with multi‑functional teams and effectively communicate the appropriate level of scientific data is important.

• Contribute to a healthy, supportive work culture and maintain a highly organized laboratory area with a strong focus on all aspects of chemical and occupational safety.
• Plan and execute laboratory experiments, analyze outcomes, optimize conditions, and document and communicate experimental findings.
• Prepare various quantities of materials (milligrams to grams) for use by the program/project team customers, and interface with other chemists, analysts, and engineers for the successful scale‑up of the chemical process.
• Work with knowledge of analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, and TLC; skilled in purification techniques such as flash chromatography and crystallization.
• Good spectroscopy skills (the ability to operate and interpret results from NMR and mass spectroscopy, for example).

• BS/MS degree chemistry (organic preferred) or closely related chemistry discipline.
• Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role, including but not limited to F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, J-1, H-1B, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, or L-1.

• Good interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset; excellent ability to communicate and understand customer expectations.
• Demonstrated self‑initiative and appropriate risk‑taking.
• Ability to prioritize multiple activities and manage ambiguity.
• An active scientific curiosity and interest for complementary disciplines within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Attention to detail and an ability to diagnose problems.
• Proficiency in Chem Draw, Excel, and other software for managing and viewing data.
• Knowledge of and experience using analytical techniques such as NMR and LC-MS.

• This is a lab‑based role.
• Potential exposure to chemicals, allergens and loud noises.
• Travel: 0 to 10%.
• Position Local:
  Indianapolis, IN;
  Lilly Technology Center-North (LTC-N).

Actual compensation will depend on a candidate’s education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is $65,250 - $169,400.

Full‑time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company‑sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for 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; and well‑being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities). Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly’s compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.