Imaging Research and Development Scientist at Eli Lilly: Job Guide, Salary, Requirements & Career Insights

Introduction

The role of an Imaging Research and Development Scientist at Eli Lilly represents a prime opportunity in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly for professionals passionate about advancing medical imaging technologies. Based in Philadelphia, PA, this position offers a competitive salary range of $121,500 to $198,000 USD per year, reflecting the high demand for expertise in imaging R&D within drug discovery and development.

Eli Lilly and Company, a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, frequently posts such roles to support innovative research in areas like neuroscience, oncology, and immunology. This job emphasizes contributions to diverse teams, including networks such as the Africa, Middle East, Central Asia Network, Black Employees at Lilly, Chinese Culture Network, and Japanese networks. If you’re searching for pharmaceutical imaging scientist jobs or R&D scientist careers in Philadelphia, this overview provides a comprehensive, pedagogical breakdown to guide your application.

Why This Role Matters in Pharma R&D

Medical imaging R&D scientists play a pivotal role in translating imaging modalities—like PET, MRI, and CT—into actionable insights for clinical trials, enabling precise drug efficacy measurements and patient stratification.

Analysis

Analyzing the Imaging Research and Development Scientist position at Eli Lilly reveals a blend of cutting-edge science and collaborative innovation. Posted on September 25, 2025, this role aligns with Eli Lilly’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by references to employee resource groups (ERGs) that foster inclusive environments.

Core Responsibilities

Typical duties include designing imaging protocols for preclinical and clinical studies, analyzing multimodal imaging data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate imaging biomarkers into drug development pipelines. At Eli Lilly, this often involves supporting therapies for Alzheimer’s disease or diabetes, where imaging tracks disease progression accurately.

Required Qualifications

Candidates generally need a PhD in biomedical engineering, radiology, pharmacology, or a related field, with 3-5 years of experience in molecular imaging. Proficiency in software like MATLAB, Python for image analysis, and familiarity with FDA regulations for imaging in clinical trials are essential. Eli Lilly prioritizes candidates who thrive in diverse teams, enhancing innovation through varied perspectives.

Location and Work Environment

Located in Philadelphia, PA—a hub for biotech with proximity to universities like Penn and Drexel—this role likely involves hybrid or on-site work at Eli Lilly’s facilities, promoting hands-on lab access and collaboration.

Summary

In summary, the Imaging Research and Development Scientist job at Eli Lilly in Philadelphia offers a salary of $121,500-$198,000 annually, targeting experts in medical imaging research. It supports Eli Lilly’s mission to innovate in biopharma through diverse, inclusive teams. This position is ideal for scientists advancing imaging technologies in drug development, with strong growth potential in a company known for blockbuster drugs like Mounjaro and Verzenio.

Key Points

Practical Advice

To land an Imaging R&D Scientist role at Eli Lilly, tailor your application strategically. Start by reviewing Eli Lilly’s career portal for the exact posting and submitting via their official site.

Building a Strong Application

Customize your resume to highlight imaging projects, such as PET tracer development or AI-driven image analysis. Include quantifiable achievements, e.g., “Developed imaging protocols reducing trial variability by 20%.” Prepare for interviews by practicing behavioral questions on diversity and technical demos of imaging data analysis.

Skill Development Tips

Enhance your profile with certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) or courses on Coursera in medical imaging. Network via LinkedIn with Eli Lilly employees in Philadelphia and attend conferences like SNMMI for imaging research.

Application Process

Apply promptly through Eli Lilly’s portal. Expect 4-6 weeks for initial screening, followed by phone, virtual, and on-site interviews. Emphasize your fit with their inclusive culture.

Points of Caution

While promising, approach this opportunity mindfully. Verify the job posting on Eli Lilly’s official careers page, as third-party sites may vary. Salaries are estimates; actual offers depend on experience, negotiation, and location cost-of-living adjustments (Philadelphia COL index: 102.4 per BLS).

Common Pitfalls

Avoid generic applications—Eli Lilly uses ATS systems scanning for keywords like “imaging biomarkers” and “molecular imaging.” Be cautious of relocation if not local; Philly traffic and housing costs (median home: $250,000) add expenses. Ensure your visa status aligns if international.

Comparison

Compared to similar roles, Eli Lilly’s offering stands out. At Pfizer, imaging scientists in New York earn $130,000-$200,000 but face higher COL. Roche’s Basel positions offer €120,000-€180,000 (~$130,000-$195,000 USD) with European benefits. Novartis in Cambridge, MA, lists $140,000-$210,000, but Philly’s lower taxes (PA state: 3.07%) make Eli Lilly more attractive.

Salary and Benefits Table

Vs. Academic Roles

University imaging research positions pay $80,000-$120,000 (AAUP data), lacking industry perks like stock options, making pharma R&D more lucrative.

Legal Implications

Employment in U.S. pharmaceutical R&D roles like this falls under federal laws including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) for exempt salaried positions and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) guidelines, which Eli Lilly adheres to via its diversity networks. Non-discrimination protections under Title VII apply, ensuring fair hiring. Background checks and NDAs are standard for handling proprietary imaging data; IP ownership typically vests with Eli Lilly per standard contracts. Consult Pennsylvania labor laws for overtime (rare for scientists) and at-will employment status.

Conclusion

The Imaging Research and Development Scientist position at Eli Lilly in Philadelphia encapsulates the future of pharmaceutical imaging R&D, offering substantial salary, impactful work, and an inclusive culture. With a range of $121,500-$198,000 and focus on diverse teams, it’s a gateway to pioneering medical imaging innovations. Aspiring candidates should leverage the practical advice herein to apply confidently, positioning themselves in a field projected to grow 10% by 2032 (BLS). This role not only advances science but also careers in biotech hubs like Philly.

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