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Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced scientist to join the Genomic Sciences team in Lilly Genetic Medicine's RNA Therapeutics organization. This team leverages high-throughput approaches to generate data that drives compound selection and lead optimization decisions and enables innovative cross-functional science both within RNA therapeutics and across therapeutic areas.
The successful candidate will join a team of genomics experts who independently identify key scientific questions, design and execute functional genomics experiments to answer them, and integrate results across data modalities to advance compound programs from screening through preclinical development. This role requires close partnership with medicinal chemistry, in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, computational genomics, lab automation, and therapeutic area teams-and a scientist who can translate experimental findings into clear recommendations that shape portfolio-facing program decisions.
Key Responsibilities
Design and execute NGS-based genomics experiments (e.g., 3' RNA-seq, mRNA-seq, targeted panels, scRNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, etc.) to support siRNA and ASO compound profiling, selectivity assessment, biodistribution studies, and mechanism-of-action characterization
Independently identify scientific questions and develop experimental strategies that advance portfolio programs, applying an end-to-end understanding from assay design through data interpretation
Establish and optimize functional genomics workflows at screening scale, including library preparation, multiplexing, QC, and sequencing across NGS platforms
Integrate cross-functional and external information-transcriptomic, pharmacologic, structural-to support data-driven decision-making on compound progression and lead selection
Collaborate with computational genomics colleagues on analysis design, ensuring experimental parameters (replication, power, controls) support robust statistical inference
Leverage laboratory automation systems (e.g., Hamilton, Beckman) to increase throughput and reproducibility of genomics workflows
Troubleshoot assay performance, diagnose failure modes, and implement corrective actions with minimal supervision
Present scientific findings and recommendations to project teams, governance bodies, and external collaborators; contribute to publications, patents, and conference presentations
Mentor junior scientists on experimental design, technical execution, and scientific rigor
Basic Qualifications
Ph.D. in genomics, molecular biology, genetics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years of postdoctoral and/or industry experience
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated track record of independently designing, executing, and interpreting NGS-based functional genomics experiments
Experience working on collaborative, cross-functional teams in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or large-scale research environment
Strong scientific communication skills with the ability to translate complex genomic data into actionable recommendations for non-specialist stakeholders
Exceptional demonstrated ability to collaborate with scientists and business leaders with diverse scientific backgrounds
Experience with high-throughput transcriptomic screening workflows in a drug discovery @context (e.g., compound profiling, dose-response characterization, off-target assessment)
Familiarity with RNA therapeutics biology, including siRNA seed-mediated off-target effects and/or antisense oligonucleotide pharmacology
Hands-on experience with spatial transcriptomics (e.g., Xenium, CosMx, MERFISH) and/or single-cell genomics (e.g., 10x Chromium) applied to mechanistic questions in drug development
Genomics data analysis skills including differential expression analysis frameworks and visualization of high-dimensional data
Experience with laboratory automation platforms for NGS library preparation or sample handling at scale
Publication record demonstrating scientific contributions in genomics or functional genomics
Lilly is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities to actively engage in the workforce, ensuring equal opportunities when vying for positions. If you require accommodation to submit a resume for a position at Lilly, please complete the accommodation request form ( https://careers.lilly.com/us/en/workplace-accommodation ) for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.
Lilly is proud to be an EEO Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Our employee resource groups (ERGs) offer strong support networks for their members and are open to all employees. Our current groups include: Africa, Middle East, Central Asia (AMECA), Black Employees at Lilly (BE@Lilly), Chinese Culture Network (CCN), EnAble, Evolve, Lilly Indian Network (LIN), Organization of Latinx at Lilly (OLA), Pride (LGBTQ+ Allies), Veterans Leadership Network (VLN) and Women's Initiative for Leading at Lilly (WILL).
Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$138,000 - $224,400
Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.
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