Associate Scientist - RNA

About the role

We are seeking an exceptional Analytical Development Scientist to join our RNA Production, Research, and Optimization (PRO) team at Orna Therapeutics, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company. This position will report to an Advisor and focus on onboarding, optimizing, troubleshooting, and performing a range of analytical assays for the characterization of in vitro-transcribed RNA. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on molecular biology experience, particularly with common analytical techniques and cell-based assays, and be familiar with statistics and data handling/reporting relevant to analytics.

This role requires someone who learns and adapts quickly, follows established protocols, and is comfortable in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The candidate will be expected to document all experiments in detail and share results both orally and in writing.

Responsibilities

• Onboard, optimize, troubleshoot, and perform analytical assays for the characterization of in vitro-transcribed RNA.
• Develop and validate fit-for-purpose analytical methods.
• Document experiments thoroughly and communicate results effectively both orally and in writing.
• Work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requirements

• Expertise in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, biology, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Either an M.S. with 1+ years of relevant industry experience OR a B.S. with 6+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis (Lilly will not sponsor work authorization or visas for this role).

Skills

• Hands-on experience with common analytical techniques such as ELISA, HPLC, and CE, including troubleshooting, operating, and development of analytical methods for biomolecules.
• Protein experience, including techniques such as CE and SDS-PAGE, is preferred.
• Strong technical background in biochemistry, with hands-on experience working with nucleic acids and other biomolecules.
• Firsthand experience with cell culture and cell-based reporter assays, including fluorescence, luminescence, and flow cytometry, is a major plus.
• Knowledge of ELN data tracking and analysis; coding experience is a plus.
• Proven track record of successful method development, including fit-for-purpose assay validations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefit program, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits.
• Eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k) and pension plan.
• Vacation benefits and 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.
• Well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).
• Company bonus (depending on company and individual performance).

Lilly offers employee resource groups (ERGs) for support networks, including 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).

Pay

The anticipated wage for this position is $71,250 - $187,000, depending on a candidate’s education, experience, skills, and geographic location.