Senior / Principal Scientist, Platform Chemistry
Orbism
Join our Platform Chemistry team to play a key role in the development and application of Orbis Medicines’ next-generation nCycle platform.
Orbis Medicines is a pioneering Biotech company powered by our automated nGen chemistry platform and data-driven approach. We develop oral alternatives to injectable biologics and design drugs for hard-to-drug targets primarily in inflammation and immune-driven diseases. Orbis’ nGen platform designs macrocycles with oral bioavailability by combining AI technologies with automated synthesis and high-throughput screening of real compounds.
We are looking for a highly motivated Senior/Principal Scientist to play a key role in the development and application of Orbis Medicines’ next-generation nCycle platform at the laboratory in Copenhagen.
About the role
You will take an active role in the design and synthesis of compound libraries for hit identification and hit optimization in nCycle projects, working at the interface of chemical innovation, platform development, and early drug discovery. In this role, you will contribute directly to the design, optimization, and execution of complex macrocyclic synthesis strategies, with a strong focus on quality
You will work hands-on in the laboratory using automated synthesis platforms and advanced laboratory instrumentation to troubleshoot and optimize synthesis workflows. In addition, you will help establish best practices for the implementation and use of new technologies and workflows.
As a scientific driver within the Platform Chemistry team, you will work closely with technicians, fellow scientists, and cross-functional colleagues, including AI and computational drug design scientists. Your responsibilities will also include analyzing screening data, identifying hit compounds for resynthesis, and contributing to the maintenance and organization of laboratory equipment and chemical inventory.
This role offers a unique opportunity to combine deep scientific thinking with practical, hands-on laboratory work, actively participating alongside the team.
Your main tasks will include
Chemistry platform & method development
- Design and develop robust synthetic strategies for macrocyclic libraries
- Contribute to the ongoing development and optimization of Orbis’ chemistry platform
- Drive improvements in multi-step synthesis, cyclisation, and diversification approaches
Scientific leadership in the laboratory
- Plan, execute, and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows
- Act as a scientific sparring partner for technicians and junior scientists
- Ensure high scientific quality in experimental design, execution, and documentation
- Work closely with Screening Biology, AI/Computational drug design scientists and other discovery functions
Data analysis & decision support
- Analyze and interpret experimental data (e.g. LC-MS, purity, yield, SAR)
- Document results clearly and contribute to data-driven decision-making
- Present findings and recommendations to the VP of Platform Chemistry and other key stakeholders
Design team leadership
For a Principal Scientist profile, the job also includes the potential to lead a small project-embedded design team spanning computational chemists, AI/Data Scientists, and Platform Chemists - to ensure tight alignment of design and execution across Hit ID and hit-to-lead activities.
Your skills and expertise
You preferably have
- A PhD in chemistry/pharmaceutical science or a related field (not a must)
- + 10 years of industry experience working with organic and/or peptide synthesis
- Hands-on experience with analytical techniques and interest and experience with automated synthesis platforms and new laboratory technologies
- Experience with macrocycles, multi-step synthesis, or library synthesis is a strong advantage. So is experience with project leadership
As a person you must be motivated by working hands-on in the laboratory enjoying the combination of experimental work with scientific problem-solving. You thrive in a fast-moving, innovative biotech environment and you are able to communicate clearly across disciplines and seniority levels.
Application
Please contact Talent Acquisition Partner Mia Danielsen (part of DEDENROTH) to express your interest or if you have any questions about the role or the process.
Phone: +45 26178142 / Email: [email protected]
More about Orbis Medicines
The Orbis’ nGen platform designs macrocycles with oral bioavailability by combining AI technologies with automated synthesis and high-throughput screening of real compounds.
Orbis Medicines has just been awarded a 2025 Endpoints 11 title as one of biopharma's most exciting start-ups. This marks the first time a Nordic biotech has received this honor – highlighting the disruptive potential of Orbis Medicines. With a recent EUR 90 million Series A funding round, led by top-tier investors such as NEA, Eli Lilly, Cormorant, the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark and founding investors Novo Holdings and Forbion, Orbis Medicines are well-positioned for significant growth and long-term success. The confidence of these investors validates the potential to bring groundbreaking therapies to the market.
Orbis Medicines has an established R&D site in Copenhagen that includes a state-of-the-art laboratory and a team of +20 experienced technical professionals and scientists. We offer the excitement of a start-up, opportunities for professional growth, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of biotech innovation. Your ideas and contributions will shape the future of medicine. Please visit the website for more details; www.orbismedicines.com