Science

For almost two decades Almac Discovery has been innovating across therapeutic targets, disease indications and targeting modalities. 

We have built deep internal expertise and collaborative networks that have enabled us to deliver scientific programs that fully align with our commitment to develop life-changing treatments for patients

Building on our success in developing novel small molecules targeting kinases (e.g. WEE1 – Ph1b, AKT – Ph3), small domain antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) and being recognised as the leader in deubiquitinase drug discovery, our current strategy leverages our deep integrated expertise to deliver next generation ADCs featuring novel payloads and linker technologies. Additionally, we are harnessing induced proximity to develop molecules targeting emerging disease relevant proteins that can be developed either as novel payloads for new ADCs or as novel oral therapeutics.

Almac Discovery’s ADC approach is designed to optimize both therapeutic performance and development efficiency by integrating several key features:

• The use of a smaller antibody format enhances tumour penetration, enabling more effective delivery of the cytotoxic payload to cancer cells
• Bispecific binding further strengthens this approach by improving target engagement, which can increase efficacy while maintaining a favourable safety profile
• Payload attachment through engineered linkages supports improved manufacturability, helping to ensure consistent production and scalability of the ADC platform.
• Novel payloads beyond traditional chemotherapeutics is a core strategy for the development of new ADCs

We apply computation and chemistry‑driven strategies to advance the development of novel molecular degraders (MGDs) and innovative small molecule inhibitors, both as standalone therapeutics and as antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) payloads. Innovative chemistry is essential for next‑generation MG discovery. This approach is underpinned by:

• Continual expansion of MGD screening libraries based on novel scaffolds and innovative chemistries
• Integration of computational chemistry and AI/ML‑based methods to enable efficient target identification and rational compound design
• Strategic collaborations that accelerate new molecular glue discovery (e.g. Northern Ireland Chemoproteomics Centre-of-Excellence)

We have developed a global network of life sciences contract research organizations (CROs) and strategic partners, strengthened by deep industry–academia collaborations that drive innovative and translational R&D. Key partnerships include the Future Medicines Institute (FMI) and the NI Chemoproteomics Centre of Excellence, enabling access to cutting-edge scientific expertise, advanced technologies, and collaborative research models to accelerate the discovery and development of future medicines.