Building Bridges with Molecules
Interview with Dr. Oliver Seidelmann, Managing Director of ChiroBlock GmbH
Innovative chemistry is the key to many future issues – from sustainable production methods to medical solutions. Located in the heart of the Wolfen Chemical Park, ChiroBlock GmbH has developed into a sought-after partner for the development of complex molecules since 1999. The company forms an important bridge between academic research and industrial implementation.
ChiroBlock was founded by two chemists, the managing directors Dr. Oliver Seidelmann and Dr. Volkmar Wendisch. "We started the company in 1999 right after graduating, without investors, without extensive market knowledge, and with very little money," recalls Oliver Seidelmann. "This made the journey more arduous, but we were independent." The initial business idea was to offer chiral molecules – special building blocks that are crucial in the pharmaceutical industry. However, the market proved too small. Instead of abandoning the project, the founding duo used their expertise to develop custom solutions for clients. This led to projects such as transferring health-promoting substances from red wine to other foods or preservatives for eye drops that promised better compatibility. The company was also involved in the development of lipid molecules that later played a role in RNA vaccines. "We fill a gap between academic basic research and industrial production," explains Oliver Seidelmann. Today, ChiroBlock, with 25 employees, serves clients from the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, cosmetics, and diagnostics industries. Over 60% of the revenue comes from abroad.
From Lab to Pilot Plant – Towards a Chemical Revolution
Six years ago, ChiroBlock opened its first pilot plant, and this year a second one. This allows for scaling up syntheses to a 640-liter scale. "Our customers want to see that a new synthesis works not only in a small flask," says Oliver Seidelmann. A particular strength is in early risk assessment: "We have developed internal tools to realistically assess the chances of success before starting a project." Sustainability is also a central theme. "We are talking about a chemical revolution: old processes must be replaced by ecologically better alternatives," says the CEO. New technologies such as photochemistry, electrochemistry, or flow reactors play a role. Artificial intelligence supports the planning of synthesis routes, while lab work remains manual. Being located in the Wolfen Chemical Park provides ideal conditions: "We benefit from synergies, such as in safety, purchasing, or waste streams. This is a locational advantage that exists only in Germany." For the future, ChiroBlock is focused on controlled growth. There should be no more than 50 employees, with quality taking precedence over quantity. "Our goal is to develop innovative solutions for customers and to further strengthen the bridge between research and industry," summarizes Oliver Seidelmann.