Head of Structural Biology & Drug Discovery Technologies in Cambridge

Orion Corporation (Orion Pharma) is a well-established, financially stable pharmaceutical company operating in more than 35 countries, including our recently established R&D hubs in Cambridge, USA and Cambridge, UK. We are now seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to head a unit of combining Structural Biology & Drug Discovery Technologies.

This is a strategic role that is central to driving innovation in drug discovery through cutting-edge structural biology and hit finding technologies. As a key member of the Medicine Design leadership team, you will work with fellow leaders to advance the integration of structural biology and computational technologies into early-phase discovery. You will provide strategic leadership to the Hit Finding Chemistry Leads, transforming target, ligand, and assay insights into high-impact strategies that drive innovation and accelerate early discovery success.

As the Head of Structural Biology & Drug Discovery Technologies, you will:

• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team of experts in structural biology and hit identification.
• Drive the application and evolution of core experimental technologies in drug discovery, both through strategic partnerships and in-house initiatives. These include X-ray Crystallography, CryoEM, Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS), and NMR, as well as complementary and emerging structural biology techniques such as Mass Spectrometry (MS) to support and accelerate discovery efforts.
• Foster proactive collaboration between the experimental and computational scientists to leverage Computational & AI-Based Tools, including Molecular Dynamics (MD) Simulations, Homology Modelling & Docking, AI-powered structure prediction (e.g., AlphaFold), and advanced Bioinformatics tools.
• Foster collaboration across internal R&D teams and external partners, including CROs and academic institutions.
• Provide leadership to the Chemistry Leads for Hit Finding, driving the integration of structural and computational approaches together with fellow Medicine Design leaders into early-phase discovery strategies to enhance innovation and accelerate project success.
• Drive the integration of target, ligand, and assay insights into tailored hit finding strategies, aligning with medicinal chemistry-driven discovery and fostering innovation in early-phase project design.
• Oversee strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational excellence within the unit.
• Champion the development of scientific networks, technology platforms, and innovation roadmaps.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, job safety, and continuous competence development of your team.
• Contribute to the Medicine Design Leadership Team and support the broader goals of Orion Pharma’s R&D.

This role reports to Vice President, Medicine Design, R&D, Orion Pharma. The position can be based in Cambridge, UK or in Espoo, Finland. Relocation support is available.

At Orion, you’ll join a forward-thinking organization shaping the future of medicine. We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment, provide access to technologies with strong growth potential and cutting-edge innovation facilities, and offer opportunities to make a meaningful impact on global health. Our culture is built on mutual respect, scientific excellence, and continuous learning—supporting a sense of purpose, belonging, and shared achievement. With collaboration spanning global teams, you will have the space to influence meaningful scientific and organisational impact. We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal wellbeing. Flexible hybrid work is available in line with Orion Pharma’s guidelines.

• Possess deep expertise in structural biology and desired experimental technologies.
• Has applied insights from computational modelling through collaboration with specialists, enhancing the impact of structural biology in discovery projects.
• Demonstrates expertise in medicinal chemistry or has worked extensively alongside medicinal chemists within industry.
• Is experienced in managing scientific teams and complex operations.
• Demonstrates strategic thinking and a passion for innovation.
• Is skilled in cross-functional collaboration and external networking.
• Is committed to continuous learning and development.

If this opportunity is for you, please submit your cover letter and CV by February 1st, 2026. An approved medical examination, including drug testing, is required prior to employment.