JobsPrincipal Scientist, External Innovation – Infectious Disease & Vaccines.
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Principal Scientist, External Innovation – Infectious Disease & Vaccines.

Elanco

Location

Indianapolis, IN

Type

Full-time

Posted

8/22/2026

Compensation

Not listed

PhD with 5+ Years of Experience
Approval 98.6%·Filings 69·New hires 31·
Established Sponsor
·FY 2025

Job description

The Senior Advisor, External Innovation at Elanco is a critical role focused on improving animal health by identifying and advocating for innovative solutions in infectious diseases and vaccines. This position requires collaboration with R&D, global strategy teams, and senior leadership to evaluate cutting-edge technologies from various sectors. The role emphasizes building relationships with biotechnology companies and academic institutions to create a robust external innovation pipeline. The ideal candidate will leverage their scientific expertise to influence Elanco's innovation efforts for both pet and farm animals.

Requirements

  • An advanced degree in life sciences (PhD or DVM).
  • A minimum of 7 years of experience in external innovation, technology scouting, or alliance management within the animal health, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industry.
  • Deep scientific expertise in infectious diseases, vaccines, or related immunology/virology fields.

Responsibilities

  • Identify and evaluate external assets and technologies focused on infectious diseases and novel vaccine platforms.
  • Lead the landscaping of opportunities and coordinate technical assessments with internal teams.
  • Establish and manage relationships with biotechnology companies, academic institutions, and pharmaceutical partners.
  • Create proposals for funding and governance, including scientific de-risking strategies.
  • Make strategic go/no-go recommendations to governance and provide updates on external innovation efforts.

Benefits

  • 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.

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