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Orion is taking a significant step in its global growth strategy by establishing a new Biologics Research & Development Centre in Cambridge, United Kingdom. The centre, which is set to open in 2025, will accelerate the company's biologics research and development efforts and offer access to the vibrant biomedical ecosystem of Cambridge.
“Cambridge is a place where the discovery of biologics truly started. It is the best possible location for us to be,” says Outi Vaarala, Executive Vice President of Innovative Medicines and Research & Development at Orion.
“The ecosystem has only strengthened since those early days. We want to be part of this fantastic environment, tapping into the world-class talent and scientific collaboration opportunities it offers.”
Access to talent and ecosystem advantages
According to Vaarala, Cambridge compares favourably with other major R&D hubs like Silicon Valley. Practical reasons also played a role in the decision: the minimal time zone difference to Finland and the presence of core laboratory facilities make Cambridge an ideal site.
“Talent from the University of Cambridge and experienced scientists from the local pharma ecosystem create an attractive environment for collaboration and recruitment. While the academic environment mainly supports technology development and collaboration, recruitment will benefit from the broad pool of experienced professionals from other pharma companies,” Vaarala says.
“The Biologics Centre will complement Orion's existing R&D efforts in Finland, where small molecule discovery and development are established functional capabilities. The expansion into biologics and the creation of new sites, including the clinical development hub we opened in New York City in 2023, represent a natural evolution for Orion's global R&D structure.”
“My task is to think beyond the next decade. Cambridge is a central piece in this long-term vision.”
Building a future beyond small molecules
“Without venturing into new treatment modalities like biologics, we would have limited our future opportunities,” Vaarala says.
“My task as the EVP of R&D is to think beyond the next decade. Cambridge is a central piece in this long-term vision. We are building the future, and the decisions we make today are aimed at securing our shared success.”
The establishment of the Biologics Centre is seen as a continuation of Orion's longstanding presence in the UK, where operations in Nottingham (clinical development) and Reading (commercial) have been ongoing for almost 25 years. The company’s Branded Products business division, which is responsible for Orion’s cornerstone legacy products, is likewise led from the UK.
“I love the enthusiastic approach, the structured plans, the clear strategy, and the genuine collegial spirit.”
Upholding Nordic values in a new environment
Vice President Eugene Zhukovsky, a recent addition to Orion’s R&D leadership team and Head of the Cambridge site, emphasizes the importance of maintaining the company's long history and Nordic culture.
According to Zhukovsky, Orion’s scientific organisation impressed him profoundly. “The people are fantastic. They represent the very best scientists in their fields. I love the enthusiastic approach, the structured plans, the clear strategy, and the genuine collegial spirit.”
“Orionees are straightforward, honest, and socially aware. We strive to balance professional and home life, leading to happier and more motivated employees. Of course, there will always be challenging deadlines, but a healthy work-life balance remains a priority.”
While Orion’s low hierarchy and corporate culture are advantageous in the startup phase, the development of the Cambridge centre will also be supported by the resources and financial stability of the parent company, marked by its steady growth and more than one hundred years of history.
“Joining Orion was a natural decision for me. With Orion's strong scientific foundation, clear values, and commitment to innovation, I am excited to lead the development of the Cambridge site,” Zhukovsky says.
