Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre

The Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to the advancement of chemistry and crystallography for the public benefit. Incorporated as a company limited by guarantee under English law and registered as a charity (Charity Number 800579), the CCDC operates on a not-for-profit basis to provide high-quality information services and software that support scientific research and education in molecular sciences[2][3][4].

Overview

The CCDC is best known for compiling, curating, and disseminating the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD)—a comprehensive, globally used repository of small-molecule crystal structures from X-ray and neutron diffraction studies. The database is an essential resource in structural chemistry, aiding researchers in fields such as drug design, materials science, and chemical research. The centre also develops and distributes software tools enabling analysis and application of the structural data contained in the CSD[2][5].

History

The CCDC was founded in 1965 by Dr. Olga Kennard OBE FRS, who established the chemical crystallography group at the University of Cambridge in 1962. Dr. Kennard’s vision was to convert published crystallographic data into a machine-readable format, facilitating wider scientific access and use. Frank Allen joined the group in 1970 and played a key leadership role as Scientific Director and later Executive Director until his retirement in 2008.

In 1992, the Centre moved into a purpose-built headquarters adjacent to the Cambridge Chemistry Department. The building, designed by Danish architect Erik Christian Sørensen, was recognized with The Sunday Times Building of the Year Award in 1993.

While maintaining strong ties as a University Partner Institution supporting postgraduate research training, the CCDC became an independent entity from 1987. By 2019, the Cambridge Structural Database had grown to include over one million structures, reflecting decades of continuous data collection and curation[4].

Activities and Impact

The CCDC’s principal activity is the ongoing development and maintenance of the CSD, which is widely regarded as a trusted and definitive resource in chemistry and crystallography. The Centre sustains its operations through a mix of revenue streams including:

• Contributions from academia and industry for database access and licensing.
• Sales and maintenance agreements for proprietary software products related to crystallography and life sciences.
• Grants and funding from industry for targeted research and software development projects.
• Consultancy services including contract research, solutions consultancy, and training[3].

Additionally, the CCDC actively promotes education and scientific outreach. It supports doctoral training through PhD sponsorships and fosters inclusive access to its resources through the FAIRE access programme. This initiative aligns with its charitable mission to empower scientists from diverse backgrounds to achieve their research goals[5].

Legal Status and Governance

The Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre is incorporated as a company limited by guarantee with no share capital and no shareholders. It holds charitable status granted by the Charity Commission for England and Wales, ensuring that its activities are carried out in pursuit of its charitable objectives for public benefit[3].

The Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre stands as a pioneering institution in the field of structural chemistry, underpinning scientific advancements worldwide through its comprehensive data services and educational commitments.

[1] https://www.ccdc.cam.ac.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?subid=0&regid=800579 [3] https://www.ccdc.cam.ac.uk/about-us/legal-status/ [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Crystallographic_Data_Centre [5] https://www.cambridgenetwork.co.uk/directories/companies/153