Eli Lilly and Company
Quality Control Chemist

Chemistry B.S., 1996

After graduation from ISU I obtained a contract position to gain experience as an analytical chemist. I was able to move from this position to a contract position at Eli Lilly and Company. I accepted a permanent position at Lilly in 1997 and have enjoyed working in the bioproduct development and manufacturing areas of Lilly since that time. My contract roles provided me with the experience I needed after graduation to obtain full time employment in a field I enjoy.

My initial role at Lilly was as a bioanalytical chemist in the product development division. My responsibilities included development of analytical methods for proteins, transfer of these methods to the Quality Control Laboratories, analysis of clinical trial materials, and participation in writing of regulatory documents. After increasing my technical knowledge and leadership skill set, I was able to move into leadership positions within the laboratories that support protein development and manufacturing. I now hold the role of Team Leader for three Quality Control Laboratories that perform analytical testing. My primary functions in this role include providing technical guidance, supervision/business planning, and quality oversight to these laboratories.

I enjoy the challenge of working in an industry whose products save and improve the lives of its customers. I also enjoy my leadership role and the opportunities it gives me to mentor others and watch them succeed. My degree in chemistry and my hands-on experiences in the laboratory after graduation have provided me with the foundation I needed to succeed in the pharmaceutical industry.