Orion Corporation
Target Discovery Lead, Cancer Genomics, Oncology Research
Orion Corporation, New York, New York, us, 10261
Target Discovery Lead, Cancer Genomics, Oncology Research
Turku, Finland (On-site)
Job Description 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 Lead
to join the Cancer Genomics Research Team. The Target Discovery Lead drives innovation in cancer genomics by identifying and validating novel therapeutic targets. This role combines strategic thinking, scientific leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration to advance high‑impact ideas through the discovery pipeline. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in target identification and validation, preferably within the small molecule space.
Key Responsibilities Scientific Strategy & Innovation
Monitor emerging trends and breakthroughs in cancer genomics to inspire new target concepts.
Lead ideation sessions and foster a culture of creativity and scientific rigor in target discovery.
Target Identification & Prioritization
Design and implement strategies for identifying high‑potential therapeutic targets in collaboration with bioinformatics and translational research teams.
Evaluate and prioritize target ideas based on biological relevance, feasibility, and clinical impact.
Validation & Advancement
Oversee experimental validation of selected targets, ensuring robust scientific evidence. Develop and conduct complex assays.
Analyze and interpret experimental data, synthesize insights, and communicate results effectively in internal reviews and external presentations.
Define clear advancement criteria and decision‑making frameworks to progress targets through the pipeline.
Leadership & Accountability
Act as the primary owner for target ideation goals, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with organizational strategy.
Collaborate cross‑functionally internally and externally to integrate insights from genomics, bioinformatics, and clinical research.
Initiate and manage strategic collaborations with CROs, academic institutions, and industry partners to accelerate target discovery and validation.
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.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cancer Genomics, Genetics, or related field.
6–7 years of postdoctoral industry experience in oncology research, target discovery, or drug development.
Proven track record in
target identification and validation
within cancer biology.
Strong understanding of
genomics, bioinformatics, and translational research.
Demonstrated ability to
lead teams
and drive projects to completion.
Excellent communication and strategic thinking skills.
Experience with
CRISPR-based functional genomics
and gene‑editing technologies.
Proficiency in
multi‑omics data analysis
(genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics), with experience in flow cytometry, advanced microscopy techniques.
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.
How to apply and additional information Please send your application with the latest CV, cover letter, and salary request in English by November 9th, 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.
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.
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Job Description 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 Lead
to join the Cancer Genomics Research Team. The Target Discovery Lead drives innovation in cancer genomics by identifying and validating novel therapeutic targets. This role combines strategic thinking, scientific leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration to advance high‑impact ideas through the discovery pipeline. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in target identification and validation, preferably within the small molecule space.
Key Responsibilities Scientific Strategy & Innovation
Monitor emerging trends and breakthroughs in cancer genomics to inspire new target concepts.
Lead ideation sessions and foster a culture of creativity and scientific rigor in target discovery.
Target Identification & Prioritization
Design and implement strategies for identifying high‑potential therapeutic targets in collaboration with bioinformatics and translational research teams.
Evaluate and prioritize target ideas based on biological relevance, feasibility, and clinical impact.
Validation & Advancement
Oversee experimental validation of selected targets, ensuring robust scientific evidence. Develop and conduct complex assays.
Analyze and interpret experimental data, synthesize insights, and communicate results effectively in internal reviews and external presentations.
Define clear advancement criteria and decision‑making frameworks to progress targets through the pipeline.
Leadership & Accountability
Act as the primary owner for target ideation goals, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with organizational strategy.
Collaborate cross‑functionally internally and externally to integrate insights from genomics, bioinformatics, and clinical research.
Initiate and manage strategic collaborations with CROs, academic institutions, and industry partners to accelerate target discovery and validation.
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.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Cancer Genomics, Genetics, or related field.
6–7 years of postdoctoral industry experience in oncology research, target discovery, or drug development.
Proven track record in
target identification and validation
within cancer biology.
Strong understanding of
genomics, bioinformatics, and translational research.
Demonstrated ability to
lead teams
and drive projects to completion.
Excellent communication and strategic thinking skills.
Experience with
CRISPR-based functional genomics
and gene‑editing technologies.
Proficiency in
multi‑omics data analysis
(genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics), with experience in flow cytometry, advanced microscopy techniques.
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.
How to apply and additional information Please send your application with the latest CV, cover letter, and salary request in English by November 9th, 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.
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr