Small Molecules

Integrated Small Molecule Expertise with a Green Chemistry Focus

We help our partners progress their small molecule assets with confidence. From retrosynthetic design and process optimisation to HPAPI containment and solid-state formulation, we deliver the scientific depth, infrastructure, and experience to take molecules smoothly from discovery to launch.

End-to-End Small Molecule Development
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Small molecules remain the cornerstone of modern medicine, yet their development is not always straight forward. 

At CatSci, we understand the significant development challenges that small molecules bring. Programmes often face the complexity of multiple potential routes with very different cost and sustainability profiles, while scale-up introduces risks around yield, impurities, and process robustness. For potent compounds, advanced containment is essential, and variability in solid-state can undermine both manufacturability and IP strategy 

We go beyond developing chemistry. We design scalable, sustainable processes that deliver confidence, reduce risk, and accelerate your journey to the clinic. 

 

Integrated Capability Across the Small Molecule Lifecycle
Discovery & Route Scouting
We begin with retrosynthetic analysis and parallel feasibility screening to identify the most efficient synthetic pathways. Early cost, chance of technical success, PMI, and sustainability modelling guide smart decision-making, while analytical and solid-state teams integrate from day one to ensure each route is scalable and robust.
Process Development
Our process chemists transform promising lab chemistry into controlled, reproducible processes through traditional methods and cutting-edge statistical-driven optimisation, and robustness testing under manufacturing conditions. From milligram screens to multi-gram scale-up, we build quality and reliability into every step.
Highly Potent APIs
For highly potent compounds, we offer SafeBridge®-audited OEB-4 and OEB-5 containment suites that enable safe, compliant handling of materials with OELs as low as 0.1 µg/m³. Our teams deliver non-GMP batches of up to 50 g for tox and preclinical studies, ensuring precision without compromise.
Solid-State Chemistry & Crystallisation
Our solid-state experts provide comprehensive polymorph, salt, and particle screening to ensure the right form for stability, manufacturability, and IP strength. Tailored solubility and dissolution studies support formulation success through fully integrated developability workflows.
Analytical & Regulatory Support
Our analytical scientists develop phase-appropriate methods for purity, identity, and stability testing. Through impurity lifecycle control, validation, and complete documentation, we provide the clarity and data integrity needed for confident transfer to partners or CDMOs.

Dedicated Laboratories for Small Molecule Development

Process Chemistry Labs
250 mL – 35 L vessels, gloveboxes, high-throughput screening platforms
SafeBridge®-Certified HPAPI Suites
OEB-4 and OEB-5 with isolators and reactor workstations
Analytical Science Suite
HPLC, UPLC, GC, NMR, XRPD, DSC, ICP-MS, and more
Solid-State Platforms
Crystal16, XRPD, microscopy, particle sizing for detailed form control
Green Chemistry Toolkits
Lifecycle PMI mapping, catalytic efficiency, waste minimisation

Why Choose Us

  • Trusted partner to 100+ biotechs and 7 of the global top 10 pharma companies
  • Sustainability built into every process with auditable ESG metrics and My Green Lab certified labs 
  • Led by experts with decades of large pharma and biotech expertise  
  • Integrated labs and cross-functional teams that compress timelines and simplify workflows  
  • UK-based with transparent, scientist-to-scientist communication  
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"Solving complex chemistry problems starts with understanding your molecule, your team, and your goals - then building the right path forward. We don’t just develop chemistry – we deliver confidence, scalability and sustainability to help our partners progress their molecules."
Rob Crook
Technical Director, Chemical Science

Frequently Asked Questions

What small molecule development services does CatSci provide?

CatSci provides end-to-end small molecule development services covering discovery route scouting, process optimisation, and regulatory readiness. Our expertise spans retrosynthetic design, DoE-driven process chemistry, solid-state development, analytical validation, and scale-up from milligrams to kilograms. 

Does CatSci support HPAPI small molecule development?

Yes. CatSci is a SafeBridge®-audited partner with dedicated OEB-4 and OEB-5 containment suites for high-potency small molecule development. We safely handle compounds with OELs as low as 0.1 µg/m³, offering non-GMP production for tox and preclinical studies. Our HPAPI services ensure safe, compliant, and scalable development of potent drug substances. 

How does CatSci apply green chemistry to small molecule development?

Sustainability is built into every CatSci project. We apply green chemistry principles through catalytic efficiency, lifecycle PMI mapping, solvent recycling, and waste minimisation. Our My Green Lab-certified facilities ensure that each small molecule development programme meets both scientific and environmental performance standards. 

Book a Consultation

Speak directly with our scientists about your development challenges and explore how we can support your programme.