Head of Antibody Drug Conjugates, Oncology Research

Head of Antibody Drug Conjugates, Oncology Research

Turku, Finland (On-site)

Orion Pharma’s Oncology Research is recruiting a highly motivated and skilled Head of Antibody‑Drug Conjugates (ADC) with strong experience in preclinical cancer research and proven leadership capabilities. The ideal candidate excels in cell and molecular biology and uses multi-omics data to inform scientific decisions.

In this role, you will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists to advance the discovery of novel cancer targets and drive the development of first‑ and best‑in‑class ADCs from concept through to clinical candidate selection. This position offers a unique chance to leverage your cancer biology expertise and make a meaningful impact on developing therapies that could transform patients’ lives.

You will also have a great opportunity to affect our overall Oncology strategy.

The position is based in Turku, Finland, reporting to the VP, Oncology Research, Oncology TA. This is a full‑time, permanent, on‑site role. Orion Pharma will support relocation to Finland.

• Lead and execute the ADC discovery strategy from target concept through candidate selection and IND-enabling studies, ensuring scientific rigor, portfolio fit and clear value inflection.
• Together with the ADC Target Discovery team (reporting to the Head of ADC), ensure the effective integration of data-driven strategies for ADC target identification, evaluation, and wet-lab validation using multi‑omics and high‑content approaches.
• Design, implement and oversee the execution of in vitro functional assays such as efficacy, bystander and mechanism-of-action studies using flow cytometry, high-content and live-cell imaging assays.
• Provide cancer biology expert guidance and leadership to the organization. Provide critical scientific and technical data analysis, interpretation of experiments and report writing.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, biologists, and clinical researchers globally (incl. Orion’s R&D Biologics Centre, Cambridge, UK) to answer scientific questions and drive projects forward.
• Build and maintain external collaborations that strengthen and differentiate the ADC portfolio.
• Work across the organization to align strategy and ensure timely advancement of innovative ADC programs.
• Ensure scientific quality, compliance and data integrity and contribute to documentation and materials needed for governance reviews and regulatory interactions.
• Participate in data analysis of experimental results and report work progress in the organizational meetings.
• Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of scientists. Foster an environment of growth, collaboration, and innovation, supporting professional development and championing Orion’s values.

• Opportunity to work with talented and experienced scientists and assistants across Orion’s Global R&D.
• An exciting and growing R&D pipeline and an enthusiastic international working environment with opportunities to use your strengths to build your competence and career.
• An exciting opportunity to innovate and impact future therapies for patients.
• At Orion, your work creates true impact and well-being for our customers, patients and society  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 improve the quality of life.

• PhD or equivalent degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 6+ years of postdoctoral or, preferably, industry experience.
• Proven leadership experience, including the ability to guide scientific direction, supervise and mentor researchers, build high performing teams, and foster a collaborative and accountable working culture.
• Experience in setting priorities, managing workloads, and supporting professional development is highly valued.
• Strong background in cell and molecular…