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Biotech Chemist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Biotech Chemist information

What does a biotech chemist do?

A Biotech Chemist specializes in applying principles of chemistry and biology to develop products and processes in the biotechnology field. They often work on the analysis and synthesis of biomolecules, help design experiments, and develop new drugs, agricultural products, or industrial enzymes. Their work is crucial for advancements in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science. Biotech Chemists typically collaborate with other scientists to solve complex problems using both laboratory techniques and data analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a biotech chemist?

To thrive as a Biotech Chemist, you need a solid background in chemistry, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques, typically backed by at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments (such as HPLC, GC-MS), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), and relevant safety certifications is important. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimental results, compliance with safety standards, and successful collaboration in research and development projects.

How do biotech chemists typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in a research and development setting?

Biotech Chemists often work closely with biologists, engineers, and data scientists to design experiments, interpret results, and optimize processes. Collaboration is key, as chemists contribute their expertise in molecular interactions and compound synthesis, while also relying on input from other specialists to ensure project success. Regular meetings, shared documentation, and joint problem-solving sessions are common, fostering an environment where interdisciplinary knowledge leads to innovative solutions. This teamwork not only accelerates discovery but also offers valuable opportunities to broaden your skill set and contribute to high-impact projects.

What is the difference between Biotech Chemist vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectBiotech ChemistLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; often a master's or Ph.D. for advanced rolesAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory sciences or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, pharmaceutical firmsClinical, research, or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, research institutionsHospitals, research labs, manufacturing plants

The main difference between a Biotech Chemist and a Laboratory Technician lies in their education requirements, responsibilities, and roles within the lab. Biotech Chemists typically conduct research, develop products, and analyze data, requiring higher education. Laboratory Technicians support daily lab operations, perform routine tests, and assist scientists, often with less formal education. Both roles are essential in biotech and research industries, but they differ in scope and complexity.

What are popular job titles related to Biotech Chemist jobs in Indiana?

For Biotech Chemist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Biotech Chemist jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Biotech Chemist job openings:

Infographic showing various Biotech Chemist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist

Elanco

Indianapolis, IN • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.

At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.

Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!

Your Role:

Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist

As a Principal Research Scientist in Medicinal Chemistry, you will be a key figure in our small molecule drug discovery engine, guiding the design and synthesis of innovative medicines that improve the health and well-being of animals. You will apply your scientificexpertiseto advance multiple therapeutic programs, from lead generation to development candidateselection. Partnering with a global, cross-functional team of scientists, you willleveragecutting-edgetechnologies like AI/ML and DNA-Encoded Libraries to solve complex chemical challenges. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on our discovery portfolio and help shape the future of our growing research team in Indianapolis.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Guidethe design and optimization of novel small molecules by applying advanced synthetic strategies and integrating biological, pharmacological, and ADME/PK data to manage Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) campaigns.

  • Serve as a key medicinal chemistry figure on multidisciplinary project teams, collaborating with partners in Biology, Pharmacology, DMPK, Toxicology, and Computational Sciences to strategically advance discovery programs.

  • Manage and coordinate synthetic chemistry efforts with external Contract Research Organizations (CROs) and internal partners, ensuring the efficient execution of project goals and timelines.

  • Leveragecutting-edgedrug discovery technologies, including DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, and AI/ML-enabled tools, to accelerate hit identification and lead optimization.

  • Promote scientific excellence and data integrity while providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):

  • Education:PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, ora relatedscientific discipline.

  • Experience:A minimum of 6 years of relevant industry experience in medicinal chemistry within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or animal health research environment.

  • Top Skills:Demonstratedexpertisein modern medicinal chemistry, including the design and multi-step synthesis of complex small molecules, and a strong understanding of Structure-Activity Relationships (SAR), pharmacology, and ADME/PK principles. Proven ability to autonomously manage scientific initiatives within a cross-functional team and manage external collaborations with CROs.

What will give you a strong candidate profile (preferred qualifications):

  • Postdoctoral experience.

  • Experience applying modern drug discovery technologies such as DNA-Encoded Libraries (DEL), computational chemistry, or AI/ML-enabled molecular design.

  • A strongtrack recordof advancing small-molecule discovery programs toward preclinical development,evidencedby significant patent and/or publication contributions.

  • Prior research experience in the animal health industry.

  • Expertise inpeptide chemistry, macrocycles, or related drug modalities.

Additional Information:

  • Travel:Less than 10%

  • Location:Global Elanco Headquarters - Indianapolis, IN - Hybrid Work Environment

Don'tmeet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to applytojobs 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 butdon'tnecessarily 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

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status

Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against jobrelated criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.


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