The Research Scientist (R1 level) in Vaccine Technical Development at Elanco plays a vital role in leading and advancing research and development projects. This position requires deep technical expertise to ensure projects progress on schedule and within budget while maintaining high standards of quality and innovation. The role involves collaboration across the Elanco network and supports the full innovation cycle for vaccine products. The Research Scientist will also drive continuous improvement in technical methodologies and contribute to strategic planning.

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline with at least 1 year of industry or post-doctoral experience, or a Master of Science degree with 5+ years of experience in vaccine analytical development.
• Proven hands-on expertise in analytical method development combined with demonstrated experience leading technical projects in a highly collaborative environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to influence technical and business outcomes.

• Lead projects by developing technical plans, coordinating cross-functional alignment, and ensuring milestone achievement.
• Drive innovation by generating new ideas, accelerating timelines, and improving technical approaches.
• Design and implement experiments, methods, protocols, and SOPs to support process and assay development improvements.
• Perform hands-on laboratory work, including development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new methods and techniques.
• Represent Technical Development on project teams, defining goals, making decisions, and securing necessary resources.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to meet project and customer requirements.
• Analyze and interpret complex data, providing clear, actionable insights to project teams and leadership.
• Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges within area of expertise.
• Maintain accountability for project deliverables and team commitments, demonstrating Elanco’s values and expected behaviors.
• Identify and leverage internal resources to execute projects effectively with minimal reliance on management oversight.

• 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.