Research Scientist - Product development

Your Role:  

Research Scientist  

The Research Scientist (R1 level) in Vaccine Technical Development plays a critical role in effectively and efficiently leading and advancing research and development projects. This position leverages deep technical expertise to ensure projects progress on schedule and within budget, while maintaining high standards of quality, innovation, and collaboration. 

This role operates within the Process Development/Assay Development (PD/AD) functional group and operates cross-functionally across the Elanco network. The Research Scientist leads multiple large-scale projects, contributes to strategic planning, and drives continuous improvement in technical methodologies. This role also supports the full innovation cycle, contributing to the successful development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products. 

Your Responsibilities: 

• Lead projects by developing technical plans, coordinating cross-functional alignment, and ensuring milestone achievement. Drive innovation by generating new ideas, accelerating timelines, and improving technical approaches.  

• Design and implement experiments, methods, protocols, and SOPs to support process and assay development improvements. Perform hands-on laboratory work, including development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new methods and techniques. 

• Represent Technical Development on project teams, defining goals, making decisions, and securing necessary resources. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to meet project and customer requirements. 

• Analyze and interpret complex data, providing clear, actionable insights to project teams and leadership. Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges within area of expertise. 

• Maintain accountability for project deliverables and team commitments, demonstrating Elanco’s values and expected behaviors. Identify and leverage internal resources to execute projects effectively with minimal reliance on management oversight. 

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications): 

• Education & Experience: Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Immunology, Bacteriology, Molecular Biology) with at least 1 year of industry or post-doctoral experience; OR a Master of Science (M.S.) degree with 5+ years of experience in vaccine analytical development. 

• Technical & Leadership Skills: Proven hands-on expertise in analytical method development (e.g., potency assays, ELISA, viral titration) combined with demonstrated experience leading technical projects in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment. 

• Communication & Influence: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to influence technical and business outcomes. 

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications): 

• Direct experience with the USDA regulatory framework for animal biologics. 

• A strong background in developing and validating potency assays for licensed vaccines. 

• Proven success in mentoring and training junior scientific staff. 

• Experience managing the technical transfer of methods to QC or manufacturing teams. 

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and adapt to shifting priorities. 

Additional Information: 

• Travel: 0-15% 

• Location: Fort Dodge, Iowa - On-Site Work Environment 

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles! 

Elanco Benefits and Perks:  

We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include: 

• Multiple relocation packages 

• Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO) 

• 8-week parental leave 

• 9 Employee Resource Groups 

• Annual bonus offering 

• Flexible work arrangements 

• Up to 6% 401K matching