The role of QSP Modeling Lead will be responsible for generating and implementing mechanistic pharmacology models to support drug development at all stages, from preclinical research to clinical trials and beyond, aiding in dose optimization, biomarker identification, safety and efficacy assessment, and drug development decision-making, leveraging integrated non-clinical and clinical data.
The successful candidate will serve as a scientific and strategic leader, partnering cross‑functionally with in Translational Pharmacology, DMPK, Pharmacometrics, Clinical Biomarkers, Bioinformaticians, Research, and Clinical Development to ensure model‑informed decision making across the portfolio.
The incumbent will be responsible for quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling executed internally or in collaboration with external CROs and will provide close scientific and technical supervision. The incumbent will also be expected to independently manage multiple projects simultaneously and participate in discussions and presentations.
This position reports to VP Global Translational Medicine as an individual contributor and is based in Cambridge, MA, US (Hybrid according to Orion Policy).
Key responsibilities
Lead the design, development, validation, and application of QSP models that will inform compound progression decisions from lead optimization to clinical proof of concept and beyond for the oncology pipelines for all modalities of interest.
Integrate non-clinical PK/PD, efficacy, and biomarker data with emerging clinical PK/PD and biomarker data to inform human dose optimization, biomarker identification, safety and efficacy assessment, and drug development decision-making.
Drive model‑informed drug development (MIDD) strategies across programs, influencing key development and portfolio decisions.
Partner closely with Clinical Pharmacology and Translational Medicine Lead to ensure alignment between pharmacology modeling, bioanalytical strategies, and clinical endpoints.
To be able to interact with various project team members in a clear and timely manner, understanding the functions of other team members and being able to explain and educate model-based analyses and results to team members from various backgrounds
Work in a dynamic team with frequent interactions, both within the team and with associated functions, and will be responsible for the development and implementation of innovative modeling and simulation platforms/strategy that ensure that the right drug is administered to the right patient at the right dosage.
The candidate will contribute to the preparation and presentation of both internal and external documentation (e.g. Investigator's Brochure, IND, CTD) and program strategy.
What you can expect from us
At Orion Pharma, your work impacts millions of lives around the world. With us, you get to work on challenges that matter and see the difference your work makes every day. We believe our people are the key to our success, which is why we invest in your continuous learning.
Our innovative products are world-class, and we take sustainability and ethics seriously. Rooted in our Nordic heritage, we value teamwork, low hierarchies, and a culture where every voice is heard.
We are builders of well-being and offer jobs with a clear purpose: helping people live their lives to the fullest.
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 are we looking for?
Basic Qualifications
PhD in Pharmacology, Biomedical/Chemical Engineering, Biology, Systems Biology, Applied Mathematics, or a related quantitative discipline.
Industry relevant experience in QSP modeling and application of MIDD principles in a drug-development setting
Extensive experience with exploratory data analysis, modeling and simulation with e.g. Python or R is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Excellent knowledge of the theory and principles of Quantitative Systems Pharmacology plus hands-on competence in mathematical modeling of pharmacologic effects with mechanism-based models using relevant software or programming languages (e.g., MATLAB/SimBiology, Monolix,R).
Solid knowledge of basic principles of biology and pharmacology at the organismal, cellular and molecular level, preferably in oncology.
Ability to rapidly assimilate knowledge of complex biology of drug action for novel mechanisms and transform such understanding into multi-scale mathematical models, with requisite mathematical and computational proficiency
Ability to work independently and deliver results in a timely manner
How to apply
Please send your application with the latest CV and cover letter by July 26th, 2026.
The expected annual salary for this position is USD 130,000 - 230,000 for U.S -based candidates depending on skills, experience and job-related qualifications.
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
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 Cambridge, MA, US. 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.
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.
About Orion