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Research Scientist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Bangs Labs, Inc.

R&D Scientist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Who We Are Ott Scientific The Ott Scientific family of companies comprises Polysciences, Bangs ... research, and flow cytometry applications. We also manufacture many specialty products to support ...

Saturn Petcare Inc

R & D Scientist

Terre Haute, IN · On-site

The R&D scientist will have the opportunity to use knowledge and experience to conduct research in pet wet food. As a part of the R&D team, the R&D scientist will develop strategies to improve ...

Elanco

Advisor R&D

Indianapolis, IN

Senior Machine Learning & Computer Vision Scientist - R&D Your Role: As the Senior Machine Learning & Computer Vision Scientist, you will accelerate Elanco's R&D portfolio by turning proprietary ...

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Research Scientist information

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$48.1K

$123.8K

$165.6K

How much do research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for research scientist in Indiana is $123,814.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,300.00 and $164,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research scientist?

Research Scientists are professionals who conduct experiments and investigations to increase knowledge in a specific field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or social sciences. They design studies, analyze data, and publish their findings in scientific journals. Research Scientists often work in academic institutions, government agencies, or private industry, contributing to advancements in technology, healthcare, and understanding of the natural world. Their work is critical for developing new products, improving processes, and solving complex scientific problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research methods, data analysis, and subject-specific expertise, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software (like R or SPSS), and research documentation tools is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with colleagues and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure rigorous, innovative research and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

How do research scientists typically collaborate with other departments or teams within an organization?

Research Scientists often work closely with cross-functional teams, including data analysts, engineers, and product managers, to ensure that their findings are effectively integrated into practical applications. Collaboration may involve regular meetings, joint planning sessions, and sharing experimental results to guide decision-making. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches the research process but also helps align scientific efforts with organizational goals, fostering innovation and impactful outcomes.

Do research scientists get paid a lot?

Research scientists' salaries vary depending on their field, experience, education level, and location. In general, they earn competitive wages, with those in specialized or high-demand areas often earning higher salaries, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, technology, or government research. Advanced degrees and skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or programming can also influence earning potential.

What degree do you need for a research scientist?

A research scientist typically needs at least a master's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering. Many roles, especially in academia or advanced research, require a Ph.D. and strong skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, or specialized tools.
More about Research Scientist jobs

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For Research Scientist jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Scientist job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,814 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Principal Research Scientist - Medicinal Chemist

Elanco

Indianapolis, IN • Hybrid

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 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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