Research Advisor - Protein Biochemist

About This Role

This role within the BioTDR team at Lilly focuses on next-generation biologics discovery, using hands-on scientific contributions to enable breakthrough therapeutics. It involves leading research across cutting-edge protein platforms and contributing to foundational and translational medicine.

Responsibilities

• Apply knowledge of protein structure–function relationships, structure–activity relationships (SAR), and bioconjugate design principles to guide molecular engineering efforts and inform rational molecule optimization
• Lead independent research projects from concept to execution, critically analyzing experimental results, drawing appropriate conclusions, and identifying new strategies to design and optimize novel biotherapeutics
• Develop scalable production, bioconjugation, and purification workflows for therapeutic and targeting proteins across diverse architectures including mAbs, multispecifics, scFvs, Fabs, and VHHs
• Design, develop, and implement biophysical and biochemical assays—including SPR, BLI, ELISA, MSD, ITC —to characterize protein behavior and support reagent development efforts
• Solve complex challenges in protein engineering and bioconjugation, developing innovative solutions in real time at the bench
• Advance core capabilities in antibody and protein engineering while contributing to the development of new platform technologies
• Stay current on modern technologies and collaborate with internal core teams to validate and implement novel processes, protein designs, and analytical methods
• Collaborate multi-functionally with discovery, manufacturing, and translational teams to advance research programs from early concept through development
• Present research findings at internal meetings and contribute to scientific publications and regulatory documents as appropriate
• Maintain rigorous standards for laboratory safety, regulatory compliance, data integrity, and proper documentation practices

Requirements

• PhD in protein engineering, protein biochemistry, structural biology, protein biophysics, molecular biology, or related field
• Strong foundation in protein structure and function, including demonstrated success in applying rational protein design and experimental approaches in affinity, function or stability engineering

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in protein engineering, protein biochemistry, structural biology, protein biophysics, molecular biology, or related field

Nice to Have

• Proven track record of scientific productivity (first-author publications, patents, or conference presentations)
• Proficiency in computational tools for structure modeling and analysis (e.g., Rosetta, Schrödinger, Chimera, PyMOL, MOE, AlphaFold)
• Hands-on experience in protein purification, characterization, and engineering
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented attitude
• Proficiency with scientific software (e.g., Spotfire, JMP) and Microsoft Office applications
• Extensive knowledge in protein sciences (cloning, expression, purification, characterization), structural biology, protein-protein interactions, and SAR
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment with strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Hands-on experience and thorough understanding of thiol-based protein conjugations and click chemistry reactions
• Demonstrated experience developing and validating novel processes and/or analysis techniques to drive projects
• Understanding of antibody generation and biologics drug discovery research

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits