Job Description

Orion Pharma is establishing a new Biologics Research & Development Center in the vibrant biomedical ecosystem of Cambridge, UK. The Biologics R&D Center represents a central piece in the long-term vision of expansion into biologics modalities by Orion Pharma. The Center's mission is to accelerate the company's biologics research and development efforts.


The Biologics R&D Center will complement Orion's existing R&D efforts in Finland, where the company was founded in 1917. Currently, Orion possesses all of the functional capabilities necessary for small molecule discovery and development in Finland. Orion's expansion into Cambridge, UK marks a pivotal step in building future innovative biologics treatments, including multi-specific antibodies, Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADC), and Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T).


Independently of geography, Orion Pharma is committed to upholding key Nordic values. The company has created a culture of straightforward and honest interactions, and its management emphasizes the balance of professional and home life, leading to happier and motivated employees. This motivation is key to meeting the company's bold mission of becoming a powerhouse of biologics discovery and development.


We are seeking an enthusiastic and creative Senior Scientist, Antibody Engineering to help build and guide the team as they use antibody engineering technologies to support the needs of the growing pipeline of Biologics at Orion Pharma.

Your responsibilities include the following:

Build and lead a diverse team of antibody engineering scientists and establish complimentary laboratory infrastructure Lead optimization of the functional and developability properties of existing antibody candidates through deep understanding of structure/function relationships in antibodies Lead the development of optimized "naked" antibodies and ADCs Spearhead the design of novel proprietary antibody technologies, particularly in the space of multi-specific antibodies and immuno-cytokine fusions Enhance the available antibody engineering toolbox available at Orion to match the needs of ongoing programs, which are advancing through the pipeline towards the clinic, as well as creating novel tools Work closely with cross-functional research groups (Antibody Characterization, Antibody Expression and Purification, and Biology Units) with the aim to identify and select therapeutic biologic candidates Be able to provide hands-on technical leadership in the laboratory when required Identify and form strong alliances with external partners and CROs to ensure effective technology transfers and control strategy implementation

Actively contribute to cross-functional project team discussion inside Orion Pharma, ensuring research plans are aligned with the project timelines and goals
Understand and comply with Orion Pharma safety, quality and regulatory policies and relevant government regulations
The Senior Scientist, Antibody Engineering will report to the Director of Antibody Discovery and Engineering Department, Orion Pharma iMeds/R&D.

We offer

This opportunity is to lead the Antibody Engineering team at our new location in Cambridge, UK; this will be a one-of-a-kind opportunity for creative antibody/protein engineers to use their talents to build a state-of-the-art Antibody Engineering team while we build a powerhouse of biologics discovery and development within Orion Pharma iMeds/R&D.


A highly innovative R&D pipeline and enthusiastic working environment with possibilities to use your own strengths to advance your competence and career.


The exciting potential to innovate and have an impact on future therapies for patients.


An excellent working atmosphere based on the appreciation of colleagues, continuous development, and mutual trust. Learn more about Orion as an employer https://www.orion.fi/en/careers/orion-as-an-employer/.

Our expectations:

Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology or a related subject area with 5+ years of industrial experience, or a master's degree with 10+ years of industrial experience. Extensive expertise in antibody/protein engineering with a comprehensive understanding of the antibody structure/function relationship Knowledge of computer-aided antibody design and modeling packages such as Rosetta, Schrodinger's software suite, CCG suite, etc Knowledge of display technologies such as phage and mammalian display Knowledge of Artificial Intelligence techniques for antibody engineering and the current state of this area is highly desirable Demonstrated Scientific Leadership with an ability to create positive collaborations within the Research & Development team Demonstrated ability to set and lead priorities, resources, performance targets and project initiatives in a global and regional environment Ability to assess and make decisions based on scientific data Expertise in risk prevention, contingency planning and delivering innovative solutions Effective problem solving and conflict resolution skills Effectively manage ambiguity and complexity of large cross-functional organizations Excellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills

How to apply and additional information

If this opportunity excites you, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your cover letter and CV by 1st June, 2025.


We typically review applications already during the application period and may start interviewing candidates before the application deadline. Therefore, we invite you to send your application as soon as possible.


#LI-ORION

Unit description

Orion Pharma's Innovative Medicines are within its R&D organization. The organization employs top professionals in the field of drug discovery and development. There are around 400 professionals working in R&D. In addition to Cambridge, UK Biologics R&D Center, Orion R&D has offices in Espoo, Turku and Kuopio in Finland, in Nottingham, UK, and in New York, NY, USA.