Head of Predictive Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, R&D, Orion Pharma

We are looking for a Head of Predictive Pharmaceutical Sciences to lead a specialist unit covering predictive modelling, data foundations and laboratory automation within Orion Pharma’s Pharmaceutical Sciences department. The department is responsible for pharmaceutical development across Orion Pharma’s therapeutic portfolio, with a particular focus on product development for synthetic modalities.

In this role, you will define and execute the strategy for predictive pharmaceutical sciences, strengthen the quality and usability of experimental data, and advance fit-for-purpose automation. By embedding mathematical, mechanistic, biopharmaceutical and forecasting models into development decision-making, you will help teams design robust medicinal products and manufacturing processes that support Orion Pharma’s expanding clinical portfolio.

You will lead an expert team of data engineers and scientists in Finland and collaborate closely with laboratory units, the Pharmaceutical Sciences leadership team, and data specialists across Orion Pharma R&D. Through internal collaboration and selected external partnerships, you will play a pivotal role in translating technical innovation into better development decisions and meaningful impact for patients.

Key responsibilities
• Build and lead a state-of-the-art predictive pharmaceutical sciences capability that combines mechanistic modelling, AI, high-quality experimental data and automation to improve drug product development.
• Coach a multidisciplinary team, be hands-on, lead by example and strengthen an environment of scientific curiosity, accountability and continuous learning.
• Combine first-principles and mechanistic modelling, statistical learning and modern AI methods, selecting the approach according to the scientific question, and available evidence.
• Establish rigorous prospective validation, uncertainty assessment and applicability criteria for predictive methods.
• Ensure that existing predictive methods are evaluated and used effectively before laboratory experiments and development projects are initiated.
• Strengthen data collection, structure, quality and accessibility so that experimental data can support modelling, learning and decision-making.
• Shape automation priorities and investments across in silico and laboratory workflows, based on scientific value, feasibility and business impact.
• Build trusted, cross-functional relationships and influence senior stakeholders across Pharmaceutical Sciences and Orion Pharma R&D.
• Initiate and lead value-creating collaborations with start-ups, universities, research institutes and other external partners.
• Represent Pharmaceutical Sciences internally and Orion Pharma R&D externally through relevant collaborations, scientific networks and conferences.

This Finland-based role reports to the Vice President, Pharmaceutical Sciences, R&D. Relocation support is available.

What you can expect from us?
This is an opportunity to shape a strategically important capability at the intersection of pharmaceutical science, data and automation. You will have the scope to influence how development work is designed and executed, build specialist expertise, and collaborate across Orion Pharma’s international R&D environment. Your work will help turn scientific insight into robust medicines and better outcomes for patients.

At Orion, 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/ .

What we are looking for
Education and scientific expertise
• A PhD or equivalent track record in computational science, material sciences, engineering or another relevant quantitative discipline.
• Experience in pharmaceutical development is valuable, but candidates who have built advanced predictive capabilities in adjacent scientific fields and can translate them into pharmaceutical applications are also encouraged.
• Deep expertise in at least one relevant area, such as molecular or materials simulation, solid-state prediction, formulation modelling, biopharmaceutics, scientific machine learning, process modelling or autonomous experimentation, together with the ability to connect methods across disciplines.
• Strong understanding of digital solutions, AI-enabled methods and the data foundations required to apply them responsibly in pharmaceutical development.
• Understanding of workflow automation across both in silico and laboratory environments.

Leadership and collaboration
• Demonstrated people leadership experience, with the ability to set direction, empower experts and deliver through others.
• Experience influencing stakeholders and leading work across scientific, technical and organisational boundaries.
• Ability to translate complex scientific and technical concepts into clear priorities, decisions and business value.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in an international working environment.
• A collaborative, proactive approach and a strong commitment to scientific delivery, innovation and patient impact.

Desirable experience
• Experience leading change initiatives and engaging teams in new technologies, capabilities and ways of working.
• Experience working in pharmaceutical development, life sciences or another scientifically complex and regulated environment.
• A track record of building successful collaborations with external scientific or technology partners.

How to apply

Please submit your application, including your CV, cover letter, and salary request by 25th October 2026. Please note that the applications are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the application period.

For additional information contact Bert van Veen, Vice President of Pharmaceutical Sciences, tel. +35850966462 Thursday 8th Oct between 10am-12pm CET, Tuesday 13th Oct between 11am-1pm CET and Friday 16th Oct 1pm 2pm CET.

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.