The Senior Associate Scientist in the Transitional and Early Development team at Elanco plays a crucial role in bridging early discovery and clinical development for biotherapeutics. This laboratory-based position focuses on designing, executing, and optimizing plate-based analytical assays to support the screening and characterization of monoclonal antibodies and other biomolecules. The role emphasizes the development of customized screening assays and robust quantitative ELISAs for lead molecules. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists across various teams to ensure alignment with project milestones.

• B.S. or M.S. in Immunology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• B.S. with 4+ years or M.S. with 2+ years of relevant biopharmaceutical industry experience focusing on assay development and/or early research screening.
• Extensive, hands-on expertise in developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting ligand-binding assays, especially ELISAs.
• Demonstrated ability to design and evaluate tool reagents for novel assay development.
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills with the ability to learn quickly and assimilate new laboratory techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of effective collaboration in a matrixed team environment.

• Perform routine and customized research-stage plate assays, including receptor blocking ELISAs, quantitative ELISAs, AC-SINS, and PEG precipitation assays to screen hit monoclonal antibodies and other biomolecules.
• Develop, optimize, and qualify quantitative ELISAs for lead candidate molecules, ensuring these assays meet early robustness criteria for successful technology transfer.
• Proactively design, source, and evaluate critical tool reagents required for customized ligand-binding assays.
• Analyze large datasets using appropriate statistical and graphing software and document all experimental work meticulously in electronic lab notebooks.
• Interface daily with scientists across Discovery Research and Analytical Development to ensure assay strategies align with project milestones.
• Evaluate and implement new plate-based technologies and high-throughput automation strategies to improve screening efficiency and data quality.

• 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.