Research Scientist-RNA Platform Eng

The Research Scientist is responsible for leveraging contemporary tools in molecular and synthetic biology to conduct basic and applied research as an individual contributor in the Elanco Research Labs and the Discovery Virology group. This position will be particularly tasked with enabling RNA-based vaccine platforms. A strong foundation in molecular biology, synthetic biology, and protein biochemistry techniques, coupled with practical experience in molecular virology, will be required to proactively search for solutions in this discovery driven team. The ability to independently conceptualize and execute experiments, coupled with a "can do" attitude, is essential. The incumbent will spend the majority of their time designing and executing experiments in several different spaces, including RNA vaccine engineering, rational antigen design, recombinant viral vaccines, viral vectors, host target identification and validation, and novel approaches to vaccinology.

Key Objectives/Deliverables

• Enable, design, and advance mRNA and SAM/replicon-based RNA vaccine platforms including molecular engineering of replicon systems and RNA IVT / drug substance manufacture
• Perform mutagenesis of viral cDNA clones and/or protein expression plasmids. Engineer desired functionality or attenuation into recombinant viruses.
• Design and construct viral vectors for antigen and therapeutic protein expression
• Design and construct cell based bioassays
• Generate and evaluate novel engineered cell lines and recombinant viruses using contemporary techniques including CRISPR
• Participate in cross-functional research teams and effectively collaborate with other functional groups in the organization
• Enable the timely progression of research projects through the practical application of scientific expertise which may include planning, protocol creation, hands-on laboratory work
• Keep abreast of relevant scientific literature/new technologies /capabilities.
• Proactively search for novel technologies or product opportunities and establish collaborations and research programs to deliver innovative technical solutions
• Demonstrate proficiency at data reporting, interpretation, and trending.
• Demonstrate good documentation skills with regard to raw data recording and protocol authoring.

Company Overview

Elanco is a global animal health company that develops products and knowledge services to prevent and treat disease in food animals and pets in more than 90 countries. With a 64-year heritage, we rigorously innovate to improve the health of animals and benefit our customers, while fostering an inclusive, cause-driven culture for more than 5,800 employees. At Elanco, we're driven by our vision of food and companionship enriching life - all to advance the health of animals, people and the planet. Learn more at www.elanco.com

Basic Qualifications

• PhD degree in virology, immunology, or molecular biology. Candidates with backgrounds in cell biology, chemical engineering, or microbiology may also be considered.
• Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to be employed in the United States. Lilly does not anticipate providing sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B or TN status) for this employment position.

Additional Information

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action 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.

Location & Expected Travel Percentage:

Greenfield, IN. Occasional (5-10%) travel (mainly US).

Additional Skills/Preferences

• Experience with alphavirus molecular virology
• Experience with cell line generation and editing including CRISPR-mediated platforms
• Experience with biotherapeutic protein (e.g., monoclonal antibody) engineering
• Experience with nucleic acid i.e., RNA drug product formulation