Senior Principal Scientist, Analytical Sciences

About the role

At Lilly, we serve an extraordinary purpose. We make a difference for people around the globe by discovering, developing and delivering medicines that help them live longer, healthier, more active lives. Orna Therapeutics, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, is an innovative biotechnology startup based in Watertown, MA, committed to developing groundbreaking therapies for diseases that current approaches cannot address.

We are seeking an exceptional Senior Principal Scientist to join our growing team. In this role, you will partner closely with Platform Science, Discovery, and CMC groups to drive analytical characterization of circular RNA and lipid nanoparticle-based therapeutics with a focus on mass spectrometry.

Responsibilities

• Implement and refine analytical testing strategies for circular RNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations.
• Develop and optimize drug substance and drug product LC-MS/MS assays for quantification, characterization; perform in-depth characterization studies for lead candidates and pipeline programs.
• Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues on high-resolution MS platforms.
• Lead method transfer activities to external partners, providing technical oversight, troubleshooting, and ensuring assay robustness and compliance.
• Author and review methods, reports, and SOPs to ensure alignment with regulatory expectations.
• Generate high-quality data packages; analyze, interpret, and present findings to cross functional R&D teams.
• Foster a positive, innovative, and entrepreneurial team culture; contribute to scientific strategy and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• M.S. or B.S. degree in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or chemistry plus assay development experience.
• 7+ years’ LC-MS and relevant industry experience (M.S.), or 10+ years’ LC-MS and relevant industry experience (B.S.).
• Full competency in all aspects of bioanalysis by LC-MS/MS including method development, execution of quantitative assays, critical review of data, and communication of scientific results.
• Hands-on expertise with complex LC-MS operations, method development, troubleshooting, and maintenance of advanced platforms including QTOF, Orbitrap or triple quadrupole mass spectrometers.
• Experience with various techniques such as IP-RP, AEX, SEC-MALS, and LC-CAD for characterization and release testing for quantifying RNA, Lipids and proteins in complex biological matrices.
• Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Preferences

• Experience in RNA biology or RNA therapeutics is preferred but not required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex data.
• Knowledge of CMC and regulatory requirements for biologics, including ICH Quality Guidelines and appropriate cGMP authority guidelines and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-moving research environment with strong problem‑solving and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• 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
• Well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities)

Pay

The anticipated wage for this position is $71,250 - $187,000. Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance).