”Be a sponge for knowledge” – Phase1 trainees share their experiences at Orion

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I was encouraged to ask at least five questions a day.

Carolina Paqvalén

What was the best thing about the Phase1 programme? 

Hands down, my own team and department. Everyone welcomed me warmly and supported me throughout the summer, and thanks to them I had the most incredible experience.  

Another highlight was my mentor group – we had several lunches and coffee dates, as well as presentations by Orion employees, which gave us valuable insight into different career paths. 

What kind of tasks did you get your hands on? 

I worked on several projects, including analysing certificates issued by local authorities, a sustainability project focused on reducing the carbon footprint, conducting non-compliance checks, and updating AI systems.  

I also had projects with different teams in the department: handling documentation for the Technical QA team, updating training materials for the CS QA team and assisting with the implementation of a new training platform for the Quality Operations team. 

How would you describe the spirit and working atmosphere at Orion?   

As someone who’s naturally curious, I felt encouraged to reach out to colleagues to learn more about their work, and everyone has been eager to share and teach. 

But it has not been just about work. The after-work volleyball games, the early Thursday morning gym sessions, and the conversations with people from different departments have shown me that Orion is a truly welcoming community. 

The best lesson or insight from a mentor or a more experienced colleague?   

Be a sponge for knowledge! Always carry a notebook, ask at least five questions a day, and stay curious.  

The most enjoyable moment with the other Phase1 trainees?

For me, there hasn’t been one single standout moment this summer. Instead, it has been a collection of small ones – whether it was messaging someone “Want to grab a coffee?” during a tough day, always having company for lunch, or simply exchanging smiles with familiar faces in the hallway.   

Give a tip to someone who is thinking about applying for next year's Phase1 programme! 

If you’re interested in learning about every aspect of the pharmaceutical business, I would highly recommend the Phase1 programme.  

And if you’re already planning to apply, remember to let your personality shine! Trainees are mainly selected based on how well they fit into the team, so don’t be shy about showing what truly makes you you.   

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I could share my ideas without worrying about being wrong.

Chi Ta

What was the best thing about the Phase1 programme?   

The support from my humble team of four. I had a chance to learn a lot, as my questions were answered quickly and efficiently.  

I got more insight into the work of Computational Pharmaceutics, and I realised that I could use my academic skills to go further and step forward with confidence.    

What kind of tasks did you get your hands on?   

As a Phase1 Data Science Trainee, I worked with data for research and development. One of my main projects was the Excipient Library, where I built dashboards to visualize physical, chemical, and formulation data.  

I also contributed to tablet design tools by expanding them to include more shapes, which involved reviewing literature, extracting information, and preparing material for integration into the data pipeline. 

How would you describe the spirit and working atmosphere at Orion?   

Professional, knowledgeable, and warm-hearted. We worked in a non-competitive environment where growth was seen as a win–win situation. 

I also realised I could share my ideas and work without worrying about being wrong or judged – all comments and feedback were valued. 

The best lesson or insight from a mentor or a more experienced colleague?   

We had some assignments with the mentor team, and I realised that my plans were quite short term. With their support, I was able to map out my path for the next 3–5 years.  

Working in the Computational Pharmaceutics Unit also helped me realize what I truly love to do – and that I can do it without doubting my abilities.   

The most enjoyable moment with the other Phase1 trainees? 

We had a great day full of activities with all the Phase1 trainees. With my own team, we also went to dinner together and shared stories about life, pets, and family.    

Give a tip to someone who is thinking about applying for next year's Phase1 programme!   

Apply for it! It’s a great learning opportunity that might even lead to a permanent career. And practise before applying.  

If you get the chance to interview, prepare well by reviewing the knowledge that might be useful for the job. Finally, bring your best-prepared self, feel comfortable, and wait for the result.  

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Thanks to my team, I’ve learned to take things more calmly.

Santeri Lamminpää

What was the best thing about the Phase1 programme?   

The work itself and its variety. I got to take on the main responsibilities of three different colleagues, which made my tasks very diverse – and that was truly great.  

My team was very nice and supportive, which helped me learn in the beginning and made working throughout the summer enjoyable. 

What kind of tasks did you get your hands on?   

The EHS Excellence team works on safety improvement, training, reporting, audits, and supplier data processing, as well as data analysis of existing safety data. I worked on a sustainability report, prepared and assisted with the monthly safety reports, and handled data related to procurement audits.  

I also got to process and analyse various datasets on chemical spills and other workplace accidents, which was very interesting and challenging.  

How would you describe the spirit and working atmosphere at Orion? 

I have had a very positive experience at Orion, and I have felt truly welcome.  

Throughout the summer my whole team has been very supportive and approachable. We had lunch together every day and always shared at least one coffee break as a team.  

The best lesson or insight from a mentor or a more experienced colleague? 

At the beginning of the summer, I stressed unnecessarily about small things. Thanks to my team, I’ve learned to take things more calmly. 

The most enjoyable moment with the other Phase1 trainees? 

I really enjoyed the Young Orionees events, where I got to know other trainees better. We also organised a few after-work gatherings.   

Give a tip to someone who is thinking about applying for next year’s Phase1 programme! 

Interviews can be nerve-racking (I was quite nervous myself, since I had very little prior experience), but try to stay relaxed. Even if you don’t have previous experience in the field, trust yourself and your abilities.