Head of Research Data Services, Global Data Sciences, Oncology Therapy Area, Research and Development, Orion Pharma
Orion Pharma is seeking an inspiring and visionary leader to serve as Head of Research Data Services, guiding our global team through a pivotal phase of digital transformation. In this senior leadership position, you will set the strategic direction for data-driven research, champion innovation, and foster a culture of excellence across multidisciplinary teams.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic vision & execution: Define and drive the long-term strategy for discovery data capabilities, aligning with Orion Pharma R&D's global objectives. Lead the development and implementation of advanced data management and analytics frameworks that support breakthrough research and accelerate innovation.
Cross-functional influence: Collaborate with senior research scientists, biostatisticians, data managers, data producers (such as laboratory teams and Data generation specialists (RWD/RWE)), and data users (including project leads, chemistry leads, computational experts, clinicians and regulatory stakeholders) to understand complex data needs and deliver impactful solutions. Act as a catalyst for cross-departmental synergy, ensuring seamless integration of data science across R&D functions.
Transformation & change leadership: Spearhead the adoption of AI/ML, automation, and modern data flows within the DMTA (Design – Make – Test – Analyze) cycle, positioning Orion Pharma at the forefront of pharmaceutical research. Champion a data-driven culture and lead change management initiatives to embed new technologies and methodologies.
Operational excellence: Set ambitious goals for the Research Data Services function, monitor progress, and ensure delivery of high-impact outcomes. Oversee the development and continuous improvement of data pipelines, cloud-based solutions, and compliance with global standards (GDPR/GxP, CDISC, OMOP).
Talent development & team leadership: Inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of data professionals. Foster an environment of growth, collaboration, and innovation, supporting professional development and championing Orion's values.
The location of the role can be in Cambridge, UK or Espoo or Turku, Finland (relocation support will be provided).
What We Offer
* The opportunity to shape the future of pharmaceutical research in a global, agile, and entrepreneurial environment.
* Generous health, welfare, and development benefits.
* A leadership role with significant influence on Orion's sustainability agenda, patient safety, and ethical standards.
Learn more about Orion Pharma's mission and culture:
Orion as an employer and / or Scientist relocation journey to Finland
Our Expectations:
* Minimum of 5 to 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech industry leading data engineering teams and delivering strategic impact in research analytics and real-world data environments.
* Advanced degree in Computer Science, Data Engineering, Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, or related field.
* Expertise in cloud-based data solutions, ETL pipeline development, and modern analytics tools (Azure, SAS, R, Python, SQL).
* Strong knowledge of global data standards and regulatory frameworks.
* Hands‑on experience with research‑phase data tools and platforms, including:
* Electronic Lab Notebooks
* Laboratory Information Management Systems
* Bioinformatics workflows
* Omics analysis platforms
* High‑performance computing (HPC) environments
* Version‑controlled research workflows (Git/GitHub/GitLab)
* Data visualization and exploration tools (Spotfire, LiveDesign, etc.)
* Model‑building and experimentation platforms
* Preclinical study data systems
Exceptional communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.
How to apply
If this opportunity excites you, we encourage you to apply Please submit your cover letter and CV by January 15th, 2026.
We typically review applications already during the application period and may start interviewing candidates before the application deadline. Therefore, we invite you to send your application as soon as possible.
LI-ORION
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.
Unit description
Orion'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.