The Research Scientist / Project Leader will be part of the Discovery Parasiticides team at Elanco, focusing on the early research phase of animal health. This role involves leading the identification of next-generation molecular hits against parasites, ensuring a robust pipeline for both Pet Health and Farm Animals. The position requires collaboration with multi-functional, international teams and managing complex biological datasets to guide decision-making. The ideal candidate will drive discovery programs from concept to candidate selection while fostering innovation and scientific rigor.

• PhD in Biology, Veterinary Medicine, Parasitology, or a related scientific field.
• A minimum of 4 years of industrial R&D experience in a project leadership capacity.
• Proven track record in target identification and validation within Animal Health or Pharma.
• Demonstrated success leading complex cross-functional teams without direct authority.

• Lead research activities to identify and validate novel targets using multi-omics and functional models for small/large molecules and vaccines.
• Drive discovery programs from concept to candidate selection, ensuring scientific rigor and meeting timeline milestones for next-generation parasiticides.
• Lead multi-functional, international teams to influence selection and transition candidates seamlessly into the development pipeline.
• Oversee the generation and interpretation of complex biological datasets to guide high-stakes decision-making.
• Manage a strategic network with academic institutions and contract research organizations in close collaboration with the External Innovation Team to achieve research goals.

• 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.