Research Scientist, Target Discovery, Cancer Genomics

About the Role

Orion Pharma is making strategic investments in challenging R&D areas where our expertise can drive breakthroughs—particularly in cancer therapies. As part of this commitment, we are enhancing our oncology research capabilities by establishing dedicated Target Discovery teams within each of our oncology research units: Immuno-Oncology, Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADC), and Cancer Genomics.

We are seeking an accomplished Target Discovery Research Scientist to join the Cancer Genomics Research Team. The Target Discovery Research Scientist is a lab-based role focused on evaluating novel therapeutic target ideas and generating experimental evidence to support their advancement. This position combines scientific rigor with hands-on expertise to drive cancer genomics research forward. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in target identification and validation, preferably within the small molecule space. 

Key Responsibilities

Target Evaluation

• Assess and critically evaluate target ideas for biological relevance and therapeutic potential.
• Provide scientific input to ideation sessions and contribute to prioritization decisions.

Laboratory Validation

• Plan and execute laboratory experiments to validate selected targets using state-of-the-art molecular and cellular techniques.
• Ensure experimental design meets high standards of reproducibility and scientific integrity.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze and interpret experimental results to inform target progression.
• Document findings and communicate outcomes effectively in reports and team meetings.

Collaboration

• Work closely with bioinformatics, translational research, and other cross-functional teams to integrate data-driven insights into validation strategies.

You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to discover and validate novel cancer targets and help develop first- or best-in-class targets from concept to clinical candidate. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge cancer therapies that can make a real difference for patients.

You will be located in Turku, Finland, and will report to the Head of Cancer Genomics team. This is a full-time, permanent, and on-site position. Orion Pharma will support relocation to Finland.   

What We Offer

• A chance to work with experienced scientists across Orion’s R&D.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment with opportunities for growth.
• The opportunity to contribute to innovative therapies that improve patients’ lives.

At Orion Pharma, your work creates true impact and well-being for our customers, patients and society at large.  Our culture of friendliness, respect, mutual appreciation, and diversity creates a safe working environment where you can strive for excellence. We offer a wealth of career paths and development opportunities that support the development of innovative solutions and improving the quality of life.

Please visit our website to find further information about our values and Orion as an employer https://www.orion.fi/en/careers/orion-as-an-employer/.

Our expectations

Key Qualifications

• Fresh Ph.D. (0–2 years of experience) in Molecular Biology, Cancer Genomics, Genetics, or related field
• OR
• Master’s degree with 5–6 years of hands-on laboratory experience in oncology research or functional genomics.
• Strong expertise in cell culture, molecular biology, and assay development.
• Experience with CRISPR-based gene editing and functional screening.
• Experience with RNAi, overexpression systems, and knockout cellular models.
• Proficiency in cell-based and biochemical assays, imaging, and high-throughput screening.
• Ability to design and execute complex experiments independently.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with computational biology tools and pipelines for target discovery.
• Knowledge of tumor biology and resistance mechanisms.
• Strong ability to interpret large-scale datasets and integrate insights into experimental design.
• Prior experience in pharma or biotech environments with drug discovery exposure is a plus.

How to apply and additional information

Please send your Application with the latest CV, cover letter, and salary request in English by November 26th, 2025. Please note that we will start reviewing applications during the application period.

For additional details, do not hesitate to contact Dr Siddharth De, Head of Cancer Genomics, via email siddharth.de@orionpharma.com.

Approved medical examination which also includes drug testing is required prior to the employment. We will also carry out a security clearance prior to the employment for the selected person.

Unit description 

Orion Pharma’s pharmaceutical innovations are created within its R&D organization. We employ around 400 top professionals in the field of drug discovery and development. We work globally: in Espoo and Turku in Finland, in Cambridge and Nottingham in England and in New York, NY, USA. Orion R&D and the Innovative Medicines business division are dedicated to making a transformation to become a global player in the pain and oncology therapy areas. 

Target Discovery Team (Cancer Genomics) is a part of the Cancer Genomics Research Group, one of three scientific units within Oncology Research, a division of Orion’s R&D Organization. Our team is dedicated to the discovery, validation and targeting of therapeutic targets (utilizing small molecule focused modalities), leveraging omics technologies alongside a broad array of biophysical, biochemical, molecular, cellular, and in vivo methods. We strive to develop cutting-edge small molecule therapies with the potential to transform the lives of cancer patients.

About Us

Orion Pharma is a globally operating Nordic pharmaceutical company – a builder of well-being for over a hundred years.

We’re home to more than 4,000 Orionees around the world, and we’re proud to be known as a responsible employer and a great place to work. At Orion Pharma, people are truly valued and trusted, encouraged to grow, and supported by a culture where every voice is heard. We appreciate each other, strive for excellence, and build the future.

Together we develop, manufacture, and market human and veterinary pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Our extensive portfolio includes proprietary and generic medicines as well as consumer health products. The core therapy areas of our pharmaceutical R&D are oncology and pain. Proprietary products developed by Orion Pharma are used to treat cancer, neurological diseases, respiratory diseases, and more.

We offer careers with a clear purpose: empowering people to live their lives to the fullest.