Discovery Toxicology Project Leader at Eli Lilly: Essential Guide to This High-Impact Pharma Role

Are you a toxicology expert ready to lead cutting-edge drug safety assessments? The Discovery Toxicology Project Leader position at Eli Lilly offers a prime opportunity in pharmaceutical toxicology. Based in Indianapolis, IN, this role commands a competitive salary of $121,500 to $198,000 USD annually. This guide breaks down everything from job duties to application strategies, optimized for aspiring leaders in drug discovery toxicology.

Introduction

The Discovery Toxicology Project Leader role at Eli Lilly represents a pivotal position in early-stage drug development. Posted on September 4, 2025, this job is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, Eli Lilly’s global headquarters. With a salary range of $121,500–$198,000 per year, it attracts seasoned professionals in pharmaceutical toxicology. Eli Lilly emphasizes inclusive employee resource groups (ERGs), such as those for Africa, Middle East, and Central regions, fostering strong support networks open to all employees.

This introduction sets the stage for understanding how this role drives safer drug candidates from discovery to clinical trials, making it ideal for those searching for toxicology jobs in pharma.

Analysis

Analyzing the Discovery Toxicology Project Leader position reveals its core focus on preclinical safety evaluation. In drug discovery, toxicology leaders oversee hazard identification, risk assessment, and mechanistic studies for novel compounds.

Role Responsibilities in Depth

Leaders in discovery toxicology design and execute in vitro and in vivo studies to predict human safety risks. At Eli Lilly, this involves collaborating with discovery chemists and biologists to de-risk lead compounds early. Key tasks include interpreting data from assays like high-content screening and genomics, ensuring compliance with FDA and ICH guidelines.

Company Context: Eli Lilly’s Innovation Pipeline

Eli Lilly, a Fortune 500 biotech leader, invests heavily in neuroscience, oncology, and immunology. The Discovery Toxicology team supports this by providing safety data that accelerates candidates to IND filings. Indianapolis hosts state-of-the-art labs, offering proximity to cross-functional teams.

Salary and Market Benchmarks

The $121,500–$198,000 range aligns with industry standards from sources like Glassdoor and Salary.com, where senior toxicology roles average $150,000–$200,000 in the Midwest. Factors influencing pay include experience (10+ years typical) and leadership scope.

Summary

In summary, the Eli Lilly Discovery Toxicology Project Leader job demands expertise in preclinical tox strategies, team management, and regulatory knowledge. Located in Indianapolis, it offers $121,500–$198,000 USD, robust ERGs, and a chance to impact blockbuster drugs. This role suits PhD-level toxicologists with project leadership experience in pharma.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Securing a Discovery Toxicology Project Leader role at Eli Lilly requires targeted preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Building Qualifications

Earn a PhD or PharmD in toxicology, pharmacology, or related fields. Gain hands-on experience in GLP-compliant studies via roles at CROs like Charles River or pharma firms like Pfizer. Certifications like Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT) boost credibility.

Resume and Application Tips

Tailor your CV to highlight project outcomes, e.g., “Led tox package for 5 INDs, identifying off-target risks 20% faster.” Use keywords like discovery toxicology, project leader pharma, and preclinical safety assessment. Apply via Eli Lilly’s careers portal, referencing job ID from the posting.

Interview Preparation

Prepare for case studies on tox risk mitigation. Discuss Lilly’s pipeline, like Mounjaro safety profiles. Network on LinkedIn with Lilly toxicologists.

Career Progression Path

Start as a Senior Scientist, advance to Project Leader, then Director of Toxicology. Salaries scale to $250,000+ at executive levels.

Points of Caution

While promising, toxicology jobs in pharma come with challenges.

• High Pressure: Tight deadlines for tox data can lead to long hours during discovery phases.
• Relocation: Indianapolis offers lower costs than coasts but fewer urban amenities.
• Competition: Roles favor DABT-certified candidates; upskill continuously.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Balancing animal use with 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
• Job Market Volatility: Pharma layoffs occur; diversify skills in ADME and bioinformatics.

Comparison

Compare the Eli Lilly Discovery Toxicology Project Leader to similar roles.

Vs. Pfizer or Merck Equivalents

Lilly’s role emphasizes neuroscience tox, while Pfizer focuses on vaccines. Salaries are comparable ($130k–$210k), but Lilly’s Midwest location cuts living costs by 30% vs. East Coast.

Vs. CRO Positions (e.g., Covance)

CRO project leaders earn $110k–$170k but lack pharma IP exposure. Lilly offers better stability and equity.

Vs. Regulatory Toxicology (FDA)

Government roles pay $100k–$160k with pensions but slower innovation pace.

Legal Implications

Employment in U.S. pharma toxicology roles like this adheres to federal laws. Key aspects include:

• EEO Compliance: Eli Lilly follows Title VII, ensuring non-discrimination in hiring.
• GLP Regulations: 21 CFR Part 58 mandates good laboratory practices for tox studies.
• Animal Welfare: AAALAC accreditation required; USDA oversight applies.
• IP and NDAs: Standard non-compete and confidentiality agreements protect drug data.
• Salary Transparency: Aligns with Colorado/CA laws, though IN has no mandate; verifiable via postings.

No unique legal risks beyond industry norms; consult DOL for wage/hour compliance.

Conclusion

The Discovery Toxicology Project Leader at Eli Lilly is a cornerstone role for advancing safe therapeutics. With its attractive $121,500–$198,000 salary, Indianapolis base, and inclusive culture, it appeals to toxicology leaders. By mastering skills in preclinical safety and applying strategically, candidates can join Lilly’s mission to improve global health. Act now on this September 2025 posting to shape the future of pharma toxicology careers.

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