CAS SciFinder Introduces Advanced AI to Boost R&D Productivity and Innovation
CAS, part of the American Chemical Society, has unveiled a major update to CAS SciFinder®, its flagship scientific search platform. This next generation of SciFinder combines advanced AI—specifically optimized for scientific data—with the largest human-curated collection of scientific knowledge worldwide. The integration aims to help researchers accelerate their workflows and uncover innovative opportunities faster.
Tim Wahlberg, CAS Chief Product Officer, highlights a key challenge: "Scientific information is diverse and complex, making it challenging for common AI tools to interpret accurately." By applying AI models refined with input from expert scientists and grounded in the high-quality, structured CAS Content Collection™, CAS SciFinder delivers reliable, precise answers tailored for research needs.
SearchSense: Smarter, Faster Scientific Search
One of the standout features is SearchSense, a suite of AI-powered search enhancements designed to simplify how scientists access and interpret information. Users can enter natural language queries in a single search box and receive AI-generated summaries that highlight the most relevant results. This helps reduce time spent sifting through data and supports faster decision-making.
During beta testing, 93% of users reported improved efficiency thanks to these features. Additionally, SearchSense adapts by learning from user behavior to personalize future results. Importantly, all AI functions operate within a secure, closed environment to protect sensitive research queries and data.
Interactive Retrosynthesis: Real-Time Synthetic Planning
CAS also introduces the first real-time, interactive retrosynthesis tool within SciFinder. This innovation drastically reduces the time chemists spend planning synthetic routes—from minutes down to seconds—by eliminating wait times and providing immediate access to real-world reaction data.
The tool allows quick comparison of synthetic pathways directly within the platform, fostering creativity and efficiency in reaction planning and optimization. AI models, enhanced by scientific expertise, improve the interpretation of reaction queries to deliver unmatched precision backed by the largest curated reaction dataset available.
Expanded Intellectual Property Support
To meet growing demand for clarity on intellectual property (IP) landscapes, CAS SciFinder now offers enhanced IP search and visualization features. The new IP Connections AI algorithm matches patent and non-patent literature from free-text inputs, helping researchers identify relevant prior art within their regular workflows.
This capability supports more confident project prioritization and reduces the risk of investing time and resources in redundant efforts. It streamlines how scientists and stakeholders monitor IP considerations throughout all stages of research and development.
Manuel Guzman, President of CAS, emphasizes the ongoing commitment to innovation: "We are continuously updating our solutions to deliver efficient workflows, accurate insights, and an optimal user experience that meets researchers’ evolving needs."
The new features are rolling out to users in phases over the next two months. Visit the CAS SciFinder preview site for details.
About CAS
CAS connects scientific knowledge worldwide to support breakthroughs that improve lives. By curating the largest authoritative collection of scientific data, CAS empowers scientists, patent professionals, and business leaders to make informed decisions through every stage of innovation.
With tailored information solutions and expert support, CAS helps users identify opportunities, reduce risks, and accelerate progress from research to real-world impact. Learn more at cas.org.
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