As a Senior Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry at Elanco, you will play a crucial role in the small molecule drug discovery process, focusing on the design, synthesis, and optimization of new medicines for animal health. You will collaborate with a global team of scientists and leverage modern technologies like AI/ML and DNA-Encoded Libraries to tackle complex chemical challenges. This position offers significant growth opportunities within a dynamic research environment dedicated to innovation and improving animal health. Your expertise will guide therapeutic programs and contribute to impactful discovery efforts.

• PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 3 years of industry experience in medicinal chemistry within a pharmaceutical, animal health, or crop science research environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in complex multi-step organic synthesis and modern medicinal chemistry.
• Strong understanding of pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and manage external CRO partnerships.

• Guide the design of novel small molecules and propel Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) studies by integrating biological, pharmacological, and ADME/PK data into iterative design strategies.
• Manage and coordinate the synthesis, purification, and characterization of compounds with external Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and internal partners to ensure timely project delivery.
• Apply advanced drug discovery technologies, including DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL) and AI/ML-enabled molecular design tools, to accelerate hit identification and lead optimization.
• Collaborate as a key member of multidisciplinary project teams, partnering with scientists in Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to advance discovery programs.
• Maintain high standards of experimental design, data integrity, and scientific documentation to support data-driven judgments across the discovery portfolio.

• Employees at Elanco are often offered competitive compensation with annual bonus and equity eligibility, retirement plans (including a U.S. 401(k)), and comprehensive health coverage—medical, dental, vision, company-paid life and disability—and even pet insurance. Time-off and flexibility typically include generous PTO, U.S. mid-year and year-end paid shutdown weeks, parental leave, and flexible/remote work options. Employees also benefit from strong development programs (onboarding, course libraries, mentorship, nine ERGs, and tiered leadership programs) that support both professional growth and community involvement.