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Contract Research & Development (R&D)

Since 2000

Contract Research & Development (R&D)

Expert contract R&D services backed by leading scientists from prestigious institutions worldwide. We deliver innovative solutions for process optimization, drug development, and natural product technologies.

25+Years Experience
PhDExpert Scientists
100+R&D Projects

Comprehensive Research & Development Solutions

From process optimization to novel molecule synthesis, our team of PhD scientists delivers cutting-edge R&D services tailored to your specific needs.

01

Process Optimization

Advanced process development and optimization for life-saving drugs, specialty chemicals, and pharmaceutical intermediates. Our scientists leverage cutting-edge methodologies to enhance yields, reduce costs, and improve safety.

  • Reaction condition optimization
  • Cost reduction strategies
  • Green chemistry implementation
  • Scale-up feasibility studies
  • Quality by Design (QbD) approaches
02

Drug Analog & NME Synthesis

Expert synthesis of drug analogs and new molecular entities (NMEs) for pharmaceutical discovery and development. Our team specializes in complex medicinal chemistry and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.

  • Medicinal chemistry expertise
  • SAR studies and optimization
  • Lead compound synthesis
  • Analog library generation
  • Patent-conscious design
03

Natural Product Technologies

Advanced process technologies for natural product isolation, purification, and characterization. We combine traditional extraction methods with modern analytical techniques to deliver high-purity natural compounds for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

  • Extraction method development
  • Chromatographic purification (HPLC, flash, prep TLC)
  • Structure elucidation (NMR, MS, X-ray)
  • Bioassay-guided fractionation
  • Semi-synthesis and derivatization
  • Scale-up of isolation procedures

World-Class Scientific Capabilities

Our team of PhD scientists brings decades of combined experience from leading research institutions worldwide.

🧪

Synthetic Methodology

Expertise in modern synthetic methods including transition metal catalysis, asymmetric synthesis, and complex molecule construction.

📊

Analytical Development

Advanced analytical method development for process monitoring, impurity profiling, and product characterization.

⚗️

Process Chemistry

Design of efficient, scalable, and cost-effective chemical processes with emphasis on safety and sustainability.

🌿

Natural Products

Isolation, purification, and structure elucidation of bioactive natural products from plant and marine sources.

💊

Medicinal Chemistry

Drug design, SAR studies, and optimization of pharmacological properties for enhanced therapeutic potential.

🔍

Regulatory Support

Comprehensive documentation and regulatory support for IND/NDA submissions and regulatory compliance.

Partnering with Leading Scientists

  • Access to PhD scientists from prestigious global institutions
  • Proven track record with pharmaceutical and biotech leaders
  • State-of-the-art research facilities and equipment
  • Flexible engagement models from consulting to full project execution
  • IP protection with comprehensive confidentiality agreements
  • Rapid turnaround times with milestone-based deliverables
  • Seamless integration with your internal R&D teams
25+Years in R&D Services
100+Successful Projects
50+Patent Applications
98%Client Satisfaction

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our contract research and development services.

What types of R&D projects do you work on?+

We work on a wide range of contract R&D projects spanning pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical industries. Our team specializes in process optimization, drug development, and natural product technologies.

Project types include:

  • Process Optimization:Improving existing synthetic routes for better yield, cost, and safety
  • Drug Development:Synthesis of drug analogs, lead optimization, and SAR studies
  • New Molecular Entities (NMEs):Design and synthesis of novel compounds
  • Natural Products:Isolation, purification, and characterization of bioactive compounds
  • Method Development:Analytical method development and validation
  • Formulation Studies:Pre-formulation and formulation development
What qualifications do your scientists have?+

Our team consists of PhD-level scientists from prestigious institutions worldwide with extensive experience in pharmaceutical and chemical research. Each team member brings specialized expertise in their respective fields.

Our scientific team includes:

  • PhD chemists with 10-30+ years of industry experience
  • Specialists in organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and process chemistry
  • Natural product chemistry experts with botanical extraction experience
  • Analytical chemists with expertise in method development and validation
  • Former researchers from Big Pharma and leading research institutions
  • Scientists with numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals

All scientists undergo rigorous training in GLP/GMP practices and regulatory compliance.

How long does a typical R&D project take?+

R&D project timelines vary significantly based on scope, complexity, and objectives. We work with you to establish realistic milestones and deliverables aligned with your business needs.

Typical project durations:

  • Feasibility Studies:2-4 weeks
  • Process Optimization:1-3 months
  • Drug Analog Programs:3-6 months (varies by number of analogs)
  • Natural Product Isolation:2-6 months (depends on source material)
  • Method Development:4-8 weeks
  • Long-term R&D Partnerships:6 months to multi-year engagements

We provide detailed timelines with milestone-based deliverables during the project planning phase.

What is your approach to process optimization?+

Our process optimization approach combines scientific rigor with practical considerations to deliver cost-effective, scalable, and robust chemical processes.

Our methodology includes:

  • Initial Assessment:Thorough review of existing process and identification of bottlenecks
  • Design of Experiments (DoE):Statistical approaches to optimize reaction parameters
  • Green Chemistry Principles:Focus on sustainability and waste reduction
  • Cost Analysis:Evaluation of raw material costs and process economics
  • Safety Improvements:Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
  • Scale-up Considerations:Ensuring processes are production-ready

Typical improvements include 20-50% yield increases, 30-60% cost reductions, and enhanced safety profiles.

Can you help with drug analog synthesis and SAR studies?+

Yes, drug analog synthesis and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies are among our core competencies. Our medicinal chemistry team has extensive experience in lead optimization and analog library generation.

Our SAR capabilities include:

  • Design of focused analog libraries based on lead structures
  • Synthesis of 10-100+ analogs per campaign
  • Systematic modification of functional groups, scaffolds, and substituents
  • Patent landscape analysis and freedom-to-operate assessments
  • Physicochemical property optimization (solubility, permeability, stability)
  • Collaboration with your biology teams for activity testing

We help identify structure-activity relationships to guide your drug discovery efforts.

What natural product services do you offer?+

We offer comprehensive natural product research services from extraction through structure elucidation and scale-up, specializing in plant-based and marine-derived bioactive compounds.

Natural product services include:

  • Extraction:Optimization of extraction methods (maceration, percolation, Soxhlet, supercritical CO2)
  • Bioassay-Guided Fractionation:Activity-directed isolation of bioactive components
  • Purification:Column chromatography, HPLC, prep TLC, crystallization
  • Structure Elucidation:NMR, MS, IR, UV, optical rotation, X-ray crystallography
  • Semi-Synthesis:Chemical modification of natural products
  • Scale-Up:Process development for kg-scale isolation

We work with both traditional medicinal plants and novel marine sources.

How do you protect intellectual property?+

Intellectual property protection is paramount in our R&D partnerships. We implement comprehensive confidentiality measures and clearly define IP ownership from the outset.

Our IP protection framework:

  • Confidential Disclosure Agreements (CDAs) executed before any project discussions
  • Clear IP ownership terms defined in contracts (typically client retains all IP)
  • Restricted access to project information on need-to-know basis
  • Secure electronic data management with encryption
  • No disclosure of project details without written consent
  • Patent support including invention disclosure documentation
  • Option for on-site work at client facilities for highly sensitive projects

We have a 25+ year track record with zero IP breaches.

What engagement models do you offer for R&D projects?+

We offer flexible engagement models to match your specific needs, from short-term consulting to long-term strategic partnerships.

Engagement options include:

  • Project-Based:Defined scope, timeline, and deliverables with fixed or milestone-based pricing
  • FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):Dedicated scientist(s) working exclusively on your projects
  • Consulting Services:Expert guidance and strategic advice on specific technical challenges
  • Collaborative Research:Joint development programs with shared IP and costs
  • Retainer Programs:Ongoing R&D support with priority access to our team
  • Hybrid Models:Combination approaches tailored to your requirements

We work with you to structure the optimal engagement for your business objectives.

Do you provide regulatory support for R&D projects?+

Yes, we provide comprehensive regulatory support to ensure your R&D outcomes meet FDA and international regulatory requirements.

Regulatory services include:

  • GLP/GMP-compliant documentation and record-keeping
  • Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) section support for INDs/NDAs
  • Impurity qualification studies and specifications
  • Stability study design and execution
  • Process validation protocols and reports
  • Regulatory filing support and agency correspondence
  • Quality systems compliance (ISO, FDA 21 CFR Part 11)

Our documentation is audit-ready and regulatory-compliant from day one.

Can you work with our internal R&D team?+

Absolutely. We excel at collaborative partnerships and seamlessly integrate with our clients' internal R&D teams to augment capabilities and accelerate timelines.

Collaboration approaches:

  • Regular progress meetings and technical discussions (weekly/bi-weekly)
  • Real-time data sharing through secure portals
  • Joint experimental design and strategy sessions
  • On-site visits and knowledge transfer workshops
  • Flexible communication channels (email, video calls, in-person)
  • Integration with your project management systems
  • Technology transfer to your facilities upon project completion

We function as an extension of your team, not just a vendor.

What analytical capabilities do you have for R&D projects?+

We maintain state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation essential for comprehensive characterization and quality control in R&D projects.

Analytical capabilities include:

  • NMR Spectroscopy:1H, 13C, 2D experiments (COSY, HSQC, HMBC, NOESY) for structure determination
  • Mass Spectrometry:GC-MS, LC-MS, high-resolution MS for molecular weight and fragmentation analysis
  • Chromatography:HPLC/UPLC, GC for purity analysis and separation
  • Spectroscopy:IR, UV-Vis, fluorescence for functional group identification
  • Physical Properties:Melting point, optical rotation, particle size analysis
  • Thermal Analysis:DSC, TGA for stability and polymorphism studies

All methods are developed and validated following ICH guidelines.

How do you handle failed experiments or unexpected results?+

Scientific research inherently involves uncertainty. We approach setbacks as learning opportunities and maintain transparent communication throughout the R&D process.

Our approach to challenges:

  • Immediate notification when results deviate from expectations
  • Root cause analysis to understand what went wrong
  • Collaborative problem-solving with alternative strategies
  • Detailed documentation of all experimental outcomes (positive and negative)
  • Adjustment of project plans and timelines as needed
  • No charge for experiments that fail due to our error

Negative results are still valuable results that inform future directions. We maintain open, honest communication to ensure project success.

What is your typical cost structure for R&D services?+

Our pricing is competitive and transparent, structured to align with project phases and deliverables. We offer flexible payment terms based on your organization's requirements.

Pricing models:

  • Fixed Price:Well-defined projects with clear scope and deliverables
  • Time & Materials:Exploratory R&D with evolving scope
  • Milestone-Based:Payment tied to achievement of specific project milestones
  • FTE Rate:Dedicated scientist(s) with monthly/quarterly billing
  • Retainer:Prepaid hours at discounted rates for ongoing work

Typical R&D projects range from $25,000 to $500,000+ depending on scope and duration. We provide detailed quotes after understanding your specific needs.

Can you help with technology transfer to our manufacturing site?+

Yes, technology transfer is a critical component of successful R&D projects. We ensure smooth handoff of processes from our lab to your manufacturing facilities.

Technology transfer services include:

  • Comprehensive process documentation (batch records, SOPs)
  • On-site training of your manufacturing personnel
  • Scale-up support and troubleshooting during initial production runs
  • Equipment qualification and validation assistance
  • Process parameter ranges and critical quality attributes (CQAs)
  • Post-transfer technical support (typically 3-6 months)

We remain available for consultation even after formal technology transfer completion.

How do I get started with a contract R&D project?+

Starting a contract R&D project with ChemContract is straightforward. We guide you through each step from initial inquiry to project kickoff.

The process:

  • Step 1:Contact us via phone, email, or the contact form with your project overview
  • Step 2:Execute a Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA)
  • Step 3:Detailed technical discussion with our scientists (typically 1-2 hours)
  • Step 4:Receive a comprehensive proposal with scope, timeline, and pricing
  • Step 5:Contract negotiation and execution
  • Step 6:Project kickoff meeting and work begins

From initial contact to project start typically takes 2-4 weeks. Contact us today at +1 (714) 732-8549 or [email protected].

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since 2000