Summary: Eli Lilly and Company is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Drug Delivery and Connected Systems (DDCS) organization, focusing on CNS gene therapy biodistribution and molecular bioanalysis. This role will support the optimization and translational advancement of gene therapy platforms for neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. The successful candidate will possess deep expertise in biodistribution assay development, molecular biology, and quantitative bioanalysis, working at the intersection of in vivo CNS pharmacology, vector biology, and translational science. This position offers hands-on involvement in preclinical CNS gene therapy programs, collaboration with internal cross-functional teams, and scientific oversight of external CRO-led studies.
Postdoctoral Scientist – Gene Therapy Biodistribution & Molecular Biology (CNS), Eli Lilly and Company, USA
Designation: Postdoctoral Scientist
Research Area: Gene Therapy Biodistribution & Molecular Biology (CNS)
Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Basic Requirements:
- PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a closely related life sciences discipline.
- Demonstrated in-depth experience in AAV biodistribution analysis and/or molecular bioanalytical assay development.
- Strong hands-on expertise in PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, IHC, NGS, and/or related molecular biology techniques.
- Solid understanding of CNS gene therapy delivery, molecular mechanisms of transgene expression, and/or tissue-specific biology.
- Proven ability to independently design experiments, troubleshoot technically challenging assays, and maintain rigorous scientific documentation.
- Highly motivated, proactive, and able to thrive in a collaborative, team-based research environment.
- Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Lilly will not provide support for or sponsor work authorization or visas for this role.
- Additional Preferences:
- Knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as applied to gene therapy biodistribution and expression.
- Spatial transcriptomics / RNAscope as a preferred qualification for CNS transgene expression mapping.
- Direct experience working with CNS tissues and CNS-relevant animal models for gene therapy research.
- Experience integrating biodistribution data with imaging, functional, or efficacy readouts.
- Experience collaborating with CROs and supporting in vivo gene therapy studies.
- Familiarity with FDA (2020) long-term follow-up guidance and EMA biodistribution reflection papers.
- Knowledge of current FDA guidance on intrathecal/systemic AAV safety signals.
Job Description:
- Biodistribution & Molecular Bioanalysis: Lead the design, development, optimization, and execution of biodistribution assays to assess AAVs, LNPs, siRNA distribution, transgene expression, and persistence across CNS and peripheral tissues. In-depth knowledge of vector biology and AAV serotype-specific biodistribution is essential. Apply a broad toolkit of molecular and bioanalytical techniques including PCR-based approaches, ELISA, immunoassays, LC-MS, IHC, and NGS. Ensure assays are fit-for-purpose, sensitive, reproducible, and aligned with translational gene therapy objectives. Conduct off-target analysis and DRG toxicology assay development.
- Experimental Design, Troubleshooting, and Scientific Rigor: Independently design and execute CNS gene therapy–focused biodistribution studies using sound experimental design and DoE/DOR principles. Diagnose and troubleshoot complex technical challenges. Maintain meticulous experimental documentation.
- CNS Gene Therapy & Translational Insight: Apply strong foundational knowledge of CNS biology, molecular biology, and biochemistry to interpret data. Integrate biodistribution results with PK/PD to inform dose selection and delivery route optimization. Contribute to translational strategy discussions.
- In Vivo Study Oversight & External Collaboration: Interface with external CROs to design, execute, and oversee in vivo gene therapy biodistribution studies. Provide scientific oversight for sample processing and analyses. Ensure CRO outputs meet scientific standards.
- Data Analysis, Visualization, and Team Communication: Manage and analyze large biodistribution datasets. Perform statistical analysis and generate clear data visualizations. Communicate findings effectively through presentations and written summaries. Actively contribute to a collaborative research environment.
Table of Key Responsibilities:
| Responsibility Area | Specific Tasks |
|---|---|
| Biodistribution & Molecular Bioanalysis | Design, develop, optimize, and execute biodistribution assays (AAVs, LNPs, siRNA). Assess transgene expression and persistence. Utilize PCR/qPCR/ddPCR, ELISA, IHC, NGS. Develop off-target analysis and DRG toxicology assays. |
| Experimental Design & Scientific Rigor | Design and execute CNS gene therapy biodistribution studies. Apply DoE/DOR principles. Troubleshoot technical challenges. Maintain meticulous experimental documentation. |
| CNS Gene Therapy & Translational Insight | Interpret biodistribution and expression data within a therapeutic context. Integrate with PK/PD for dose selection and delivery optimization. Contribute to translational strategy. |
| In Vivo Study Oversight & External Collaboration | Interface with CROs for study design, execution, and oversight. Provide scientific oversight for sample processing and analyses. Ensure CRO outputs meet scientific standards. |
| Data Analysis & Communication | Manage and analyze multi-dimensional biodistribution datasets. Perform statistical analysis and data visualization. Communicate findings effectively to project teams and decision-making forums. |
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Eli Lilly careers portal. (Link to apply: Not provided in the text, please refer to the original job posting on the Lilly careers website for the direct application link). Qualified applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Last Date for Apply:
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