Lance Dockery

Bioconjugation process development for Lilly's growing portfolio of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), antibody-peptide conjugates (APCs), and antibody-RNA/oligonucleotide conjugates (ARCs/AOCs). • Develop and execute bioconjugation processes from early development through clinical supply, with an eye toward eventual commercial manufacturing. • Conduct fundamental studies of individual process steps to build mechanistic understanding and platform knowledge that translates across modalities. • Design and run small-scale bioconjugation reactions, applying synthetic organic chemistry principles to optimize conjugation chemistry, linker design, and payload incorporation. • Characterize intermediates and final conjugates using RP-HPLC, SEC, IEX, HIC, LC-MS, and CE-SDS — selecting and developing methods appropriate to each modality. • Execute preparative-scale purifications (TFF, IEX) for bioconjugate intermediates and drug substance, bridging bench chemistry and downstream process needs. • Handle highly potent small-molecule payloads under appropriate containment. • Collaborate across Bioproduct R&D, Synthetic Molecule Design and Development, discovery, and biologics development teams to advance new conjugate medicines.

Bioconjugation chemist experienced in the design and development of bioconjugates and drug-loaded nanoparticle conjugates for targeted therapeutic applications. • Skilled in producing and characterizing peptide–protein bioconjugates and polymeric nanoparticles for drug delivery. • Proficient in optimizing site-specific bioconjugation strategies and nanoparticle formulations to enhance Bioconjugation chemist on the Nanomedicine / Biologics Engineering team, developing bioconjugates and drug-loaded nanoparticle systems for targeted therapeutic applications. • Designed and produced peptide-protein bioconjugates and polymeric nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery, optimizing site-specific conjugation strategies to improve targeting efficiency and developability. • Led biophysical characterization of conjugates and nanoparticles using a broad analytical toolkit: LC-MS, HPLC, SEC-MALS, IEX, HIC, DLS, TEM, UV-Vis, CD spectroscopy, and fluorescence assays. • Contributed to the Peptide Dendrons for Intracellular Delivery (PDIDs) platform for safe and efficient in vivo DNA delivery (co-authored publication). • Partnered across discovery, formulation, and in vitro biology teams, supporting interdisciplinary programs from concept through pilot tox demonstrations. • Mentored interns and contributed to recruiting next-generation scientists into the bioconjugation and nanomedicine space.

Conducted research on the design and synthesis of multifunctional, targeted dendronized nanocarriers for cancer therapy. Applied diverse techniques in organic synthesis, bioconjugation, and nanomaterials chemistry to develop and characterize dendronized poly(propylene imine) gold nanoparticles engineered for selective delivery of chemotherapeutics to prostate cancer cells. Optimized nanoparticle formulations and evaluated their in vitro targeting efficiency and cytotoxicity to assess therapeutic potential.

Served as the instructor of record for both in-person and hybrid formats of Organic Chemistry I and II laboratory courses. Applied strong communication and leadership skills to mentor students in foundational laboratory safety and techniques. Provided individualized guidance on independent research projects, fostering critical thinking, experimental design, and scientific inquiry.

Developed a novel method and elucidated the mechanism for stereoselective carbohydrate synthesis via anomeric phosphonium intermediates. Trained in organic synthesis and characterization of small molecules.

Independently led recitation sessions to reinforce core course concepts and facilitate student engagement. Supervised laboratory sections with a strong emphasis on safety protocols and hands-on mentoring, guiding students in mastering efficient and accurate laboratory techniques. Fostered a supportive learning environment that encouraged inquiry, precision, and skill development.

Oversaw undergraduate laboratory sections, providing hands-on guidance and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Delivered supplemental instruction sessions focused on exam preparation and lecture reinforcement to enhance student comprehension of lecture-based material. Supported the lab manager with weekly setup and organization of lab materials and equipment. Contributed to curriculum development by proposing improvements to experimental design and instructional strategies.