Provide scientific and strategic leadership in shaping the AI/ML strategy for RNA therapeutics discovery.
Partner with global experimental and computational scientists, statisticians, data scientists, AI/ML experts, and IT professionals to define priorities, guide execution, and deliver AI/ML solutions that advance Lilly’s molecule discovery efforts.
Set technical and scientific direction for the design, implementation, and optimization of AI/ML models to accelerate RNA‑based drug discovery
Define and advance a unified modeling platform that leverages data across programs and modalities to accelerate the design of next-generation RNA therapeutics, ensuring every experiment contributes to reusable data assets
Lead the integration and interpretation of large‑scale datasets, including internal and external in vitro, in vivo, and ADME/Tox data, to generate actionable biological insights
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enable the identification of optimal combinations of sequence/chemistry to address on-target potency and off-target liability.
Partner with matrixed functions across Lilly to develop, deploy, and scale AI‑driven data analysis pipelines for high‑throughput experimentation
Design AI/ML workflows that integrate with automated experimental platforms, including high-throughput screening and robotic DMTA cycles, to enable closed-loop optimization
Continuously evaluate and introduce emerging AI/ML methodologies to strengthen RNA discovery workflows and organizational capabilities
Synthesize and communicate complex findings through clear visualizations and presentations
Serve as a scientific leader and contribute to project, governance, and management discussions
Mentor and develop junior computational scientists, fostering technical growth and building organizational AI/ML capabilities across the enterprise

Requirements

PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, integrated biomedical sciences, or a closely related field, plus 8+ years’ experience in pharma or biotech, with demonstrated scientific leadership in a drug discovery AI/ML function.
Demonstrated track record applying AI/ML approaches to solve complex biological or pharmaceutical problems in drug discovery, preferably in RNA therapeutics
Extensive experience with high-throughput, high-dimensional, and high-volume data analysis, including large-scale NGS data integration and interpretation
Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or similar tools relevant to data science and bioinformatics
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse scientific and non-scientific audiences.
Proven ability to operate effectively in multidisciplinary, cross-functional environments and influence outcomes
Self-directed scientific leader with strong learning agility
Advanced problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities
Extensive experience developing scientific solutions using Python, R, or similar languages
Experience working in high-performance computing and/or cloud environments
Deep understanding of nucleic acid, cellular, and molecular biology
Strong grounding in the biological principles underlying RNA therapeutics
Demonstrated knowledge of genetics and molecular biology, particularly as they relate to RNA
Track record of external scientific engagement, including publications, conference presentations, and/or industry collaborations
Experience representing a computational function to senior leadership and contributing to enterprise-level AI/ML strategy.

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)

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

AI/MLRNA therapeuticsdata analysishigh-throughput screeningPythonRbioinformaticscomputational biologyNGS data integrationproblem-solving

Soft Skills

scientific leadershipcommunication skillscollaborationinfluenceself-directedlearning agilitymentoringtechnical growthpresentation skillscross-functional teamwork

Certifications

PhD in computational biologyPhD in bioinformaticsPhD in computer sciencePhD in statisticsPhD in integrated biomedical sciences