Scientist - Analytical Method Development SMDD Foundry Readiness

About Lilly

At Lilly, the work is demanding because patients are waiting. We unite caring with discovery to help make life better for people around the world, knowing that every decision, every detail, and every day matters. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, our over 50,000 employees around the globe take on complex challenges to discover and deliver life‑changing medicines, strengthen how health is understood and managed, and support the communities we serve.

This is hard, urgent, selfless work—but it’s work worth doing. If you’re driven by purpose and ready to bring your best to work that truly matters for patients, we invite you to join us.

Synthetic Molecule Design and Development has an exciting opportunity for an analytical chemist to join our development group. In this hands‑on laboratory role (>70% bench work), you will develop analytical methods and characterize chemical processes to advance drug candidates from early development through manufacturing readiness. You will expand and apply your expertise in chromatographic method development and leverage complementary techniques (mass spectrometry, NMR) while partnering closely with synthetic chemists and process engineers to solve critical process development challenges.

The ideal candidate brings practical chromatography experience, strong problem‑solving skills, and the ability to translate analytical data into actionable insights for project teams.

• Develop and optimize analytical methods to accurately measure purity, potency, and other critical quality attributes of small‑molecule drug substances and synthetic intermediates.
• Select and implement appropriate analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, NMR, MS) to support chemical process development—independently generating data that elucidates reaction mechanisms, characterizes kinetic behavior, and identifies process‑related impurities.
• Collaborate with synthetic chemists and process engineers to ensure analytical methods are suitable for guiding development activities and can be successfully transferred to GMP laboratories for routine testing and manufacturing support.
• Perform laboratory activities with a strong emphasis on safety and technical rigor, while adhering to local policies and procedures.
• Identify and apply new scientific concepts, exhibit strong problem‑solving skills, and be self‑motivated to contribute across multiple projects.

Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills to represent both the technical aspects and business‑related implications of your work.

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• 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.

• Experience with chromatographic (LC, GC, IC) method development or validation in pharmaceutical, chemical, or regulated industry setting.
• Working knowledge of mass spectrometry (LC‑MS, GC‑MS) and NMR spectroscopy.
• Familiarity with chemical process development, synthetic organic chemistry, and rationales for establishing material specifications and testing plans.
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining analytical instrumentation.
• Demonstration of scientific leadership and the ability to influence others.
• Ability to balance multiple responsibilities, prioritize activities, and navigate ambiguity.

Potential exposure to chemicals, allergens, and loud noises. Travel: 0 to 10%.

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 will also be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company‑sponsored 401(k);…