Director, Pain and Inflammation Research

Job Description
Orion Corporation is a well-established, financially stable pharmaceutical company operating in more than 35 countries, including recently established R&D hubs in NYC, USA and Cambridge, UK. In the Pain Therapy Area, we focus on targets modulating sensory neuron hyperexcitability and neuro-immune interactions. Additionally, we are looking to expand our research into inflammatory diseases. As the current Head of Pain Research is retiring, we are seeking new talent to shape the future of the Therapy Area.

We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to head our Pain and Inflammation Research within the Pain Therapy area. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of pain and inflammation therapeutics by driving scientific innovation, strategic collaborations, and portfolio development. The successful candidate will lead a group of over 20 dedicated scientists and research associates, manage cross-functional teams, and foster partnerships with academia and industry to advance our mission of delivering transformative treatments for pain and inflammation-related diseases.

*Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Portfolio Development*

• Lead the research strategy and portfolio building within the Therapy Area.
• Define and execute long-term research goals aligned with company strategy and unmet medical needs in pain and inflammation.
• Evaluate new project ideas and guide ongoing research projects to ensure scientific excellence and strategic alignment.

*Scientific and Collaborative Leadership*

• Lead target biology initiatives ensuring robust scientific direction and innovation.
• Scout and assess new modalities, technologies, and treatment options for pain and inflammation-related diseases.
• Lead preclinical strategic collaborations with academic institutions and other pharmaceutical companies, in coordination with internal experts.
• Evaluate and support in-licensing opportunities to strengthen the portfolio.

*Cross-functional Collaboration*

• Work closely with other key functions to ensure appropriate project support and resourcing.
• Network actively with in-house and external experts to stay at the forefront of research and therapeutic innovation.

*People Leadership & Development*

• Lead the Pain and Inflammation Research group located in Turku, Finland, including full line management responsibilities in accordance with company policies.
• Support the career development of scientists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.

*External Engagement*

• Represent the company in strategic collaborations with academic institutions and other pharmaceutical companies.
• Act as a thought leader in the research community through publications, presentations, and participation in key scientific forums.

*What We Offer:*
We offer a dynamic and innovative research environment where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of the Therapy Area. Our workplace culture is built on mutual respect, continuous learning, and shared values, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. With a collaborative culture that spans global teams, we support meaningful connections and shared success. In addition to engaging work, we provide competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your personal and professional growth.

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 .

Orion Pharma will support relocation. You can work flexibly in a hybrid model in accordance with Orion's relevant guidelines.

Our expectations

• PhD or MD/PhD in immunology, neuroscience, pharmacology, or related field with a strong background in pain and inflammation research.
• Proven track record in leading research teams and managing complex scientific projects in pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience in drug discovery and development, particularly in pain and inflammation.
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage strategic collaborations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in portfolio strategy and evaluation of external opportunities is highly desirable.

Additional Information
If you are the person we are looking for, please submit your cover letter and CV by 9 th November 2025.

Approved medical examination which also includes drug testing is required prior to the employment.
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.

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.