Research Associate, Antibody Analytics, R&D UK Center (Cambridge), Research and Development, Orion Pharma

Research Associate, Antibody Analytics, R&D UK Center (Cambridge), Research and Development, Orion Pharma

The Antibody Purification and Analytics group is a core part of the newly established Orion Biologics R&D UK Centre, responsible for supporting the discovery and development of next-generation biologics, including multispecific antibodies, antigens, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and CAR-Ts, from early research through clinical development.

Orion Pharma has recently established a Biologics Research & Development Centre in the vibrant biomedical ecosystem of Cambridge, UK. The Biologics R&D Centre represents a central piece in the long-term vision of expansion into biologics modalities by Orion Pharma. The Centre’s mission is to accelerate the company's biologics research and development efforts.

The Biologics R&D Centre complements Orion's existing R&D efforts in Finland, where the company was founded in 1917. Currently, Orion possesses all of the functional capabilities necessary for small molecule discovery and development in Finland. Orion’s expansion into Cambridge, UK marks a pivotal step in building future innovative biologics treatments, including multi-specific antibodies, Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADC), and Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T).

Independently of geography, Orion Pharma is committed to upholding key Nordic values. The company has created a culture of straightforward and honest interactions, and its management emphasizes the balance of professional and home life, leading to happier and motivated employees. This motivation is key to meeting the company’s bold mission of becoming a powerhouse of biologics discovery and development.

We are seeking a highly motivated Antibody Analytics Research Associate to establish and support Orion Pharma’s characterization platform. This role will be pivotal in supporting a growing and dynamic pipeline of biologics with a focus on delivering high-quality material for functional testing, and eventually clinical development.

- Your responsibilities include the following:

- Execute experiments to assess the quality, stability, and developability of antibodies and complex biologics, using techniques such as affinity measurements (SPR), DLS, DSC, DSF, analytical HPLC (SEC-MALS, HIC, etc), CE-SDS, polyreactivity, AC-SINS, subvisible particle analysis, immunogenicity and other relevant assays.
- Support the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of analytical workflows, including sample preparation, instrument operation, and method execution.
- Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records by documenting assay conditions and observations in electronic lab notebooks, and ensure procedures are regularly updated and current.
- Assist with forced degradation studies and other stability profiling experiments to support early-stage developability assessments.

- Track and analyse experimental data to support interpretation and decision-making within the Antibody Analytics team.
- Contribute to laboratory maintenance, including calibration of instruments, inventory management, and ensuring proper operation of analytical equipment.
- Collaborate closely with upstream expression, purification, antibody discovery and engineering, and functional biology teams to ensure timely and high-quality data delivery.
- Participate in team meetings and discussions, sharing experimental results and contributing ideas to improve workflows and problem-solving.
- Comply with all safety and quality standards, following internal SOPs and maintaining a clean, organized work environment.

This position will report to the Head of Antibody & Protein Analytics Team Lead within Orion Pharma’s iMeds/R&D organization.

Description of our organization

Orion Pharma’s Innovative Medine’s innovations are within its R&D organization. The organisation employs top professionals in the field of drug discovery and development. There are around 400 professionals working in R&D. Orion R&D has offices in Espoo, Turku and Kuopio in Finland, in Nottingham, UK, and in New York, NY, USA.

We offer

A unique opportunity for an enthusiastic Antibody Analytics RA to gain experience characterising novel antibody formats using a broad range of analytical techniques. The role will help strengthen analytical capabilities at our new Cambridge, UK location and contribute to the development of a state-of-the-art antibody discovery powerhouse, with the full support of Orion Pharma iMeds/R&D.

A highly innovative R&D pipeline and enthusiastic working environment with possibilities to use your own strengths to advance your competence and career.

The exciting potential to innovate and have an impact on future therapies for patients.

An excellent working atmosphere based on the appreciation of colleagues, continuous development, and mutual trust. Learn more about Orion as an employer https://www.orion.fi/en/careers/orion-as-an-employer/.

Our expectations: A BSc or MSc in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline, with 1-3 years of practical laboratory experience gained through industry, academic research, or other relevant laboratory work.

- Hands-on experience with affinity measurement techniques, including surface plasmon resonance (SPR) using instruments such as Biacore, or Carterra.
- Hands-on experience with analytical assays used to assess the biophysical properties of proteins, such as DLS, DSC, DSF, HPLC (SEC, HIC), CE-SDS, AC-SINS, UV spectrophotometry, and subvisible particle analysis.
- Familiarity with complex biologics such as bispecific or multispecific antibodies, ADCs, or other novel modalities is advantageous.
- Understanding of basic protein structure-function relationships and how they influence analytical strategy and molecule developability is desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to follow operating procedures, maintain detailed laboratory records, and contribute to data reporting and interpretation.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional research environment.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining high standards of lab safety, data integrity, and reproducibility.

#LI-ORION

How to apply and additional information

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.

Please attach your CV and cover letter by 27 October 2026