Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre

Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre

The Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) is a non-profit organization based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, that specializes in the collection, maintenance, and distribution of crystallographic data. It is renowned for its comprehensive database of small-molecule organic and metal-organic crystal structures, known as the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD).

History

The CCDC was established in 1965 by Dr. Olga Kennard, who recognized the importance of collecting and preserving crystallographic data. The center was initially part of the University of Cambridge's Department of Chemistry but later became an independent entity. Over the years, the CCDC has grown significantly, both in terms of the size of its database and its influence in the field of crystallography.

Cambridge Structural Database (CSD)

The CSD is the world's largest repository of small-molecule crystal structures. It contains over one million entries, each representing a unique crystal structure. The database is an invaluable resource for chemists, crystallographers, and researchers in related fields, providing detailed information about molecular geometry, intermolecular interactions, and crystal packing.

Research and Development

The CCDC is actively involved in research and development to enhance the functionality and accessibility of the CSD. This includes the development of software tools for data analysis, visualization, and structure prediction. The center collaborates with academic and industrial partners to advance the field of crystallography and promote the use of crystallographic data in scientific research.

Educational Initiatives

The CCDC is committed to education and outreach, offering workshops, training sessions, and online resources to help users make the most of the CSD. These initiatives aim to support the next generation of scientists and promote the understanding and application of crystallography in various disciplines.

Impact

The CCDC's work has had a profound impact on the field of chemistry and beyond. The data and tools provided by the CCDC are used in drug discovery, materials science, and many other areas of research. The center's commitment to data integrity and accessibility has set a standard for scientific databases worldwide.

Also see

• Crystallography
• X-ray crystallography
• Protein Data Bank
• Molecular geometry
• Intermolecular force