Our Science
Cephalon science is driven by our commitment to scientific exploration to deliver breakthrough medications to people in need.
Our approach is driven by a dedication to scientific excellence and a transparent, data driven approach to decision making involving scientists at all levels as an integral part of the process.
From the identification of targets, to the optimization of lead molecules to advancing late-stage compounds, Cephalon has developed a robust product portfolio and a product pipeline that addresses a variety of serious illnesses. Projects underway worldwide, extend from new identifying new compounds to clinical research focused on expanding indications for existing products.
Our drug discovery efforts began in 1987 with a specific focus on neurodegenerative disorders including Lou Gehrig’s, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. This focus on central nervous system disorders led to identification of a number of in-licensing opportunities to compliment our internal R & D efforts and the launch of our first product PROVIGIL® in 1999. In 1997, the kinase-based research platform developed to work on novel targets for the treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases was used to initiate several research and strategic partnerships in the area of oncology. Today, Cephalon is a leader in the discovery and development of novel kinase-based treatments for cancer.
We take great satisfaction in knowing that our research contributes to the greater understanding of science and medicine. As scientists and innovators, we know that scientific exploration that does not lead to a desired result does not mean the effort was futile. In fact, it may be of significant value to the furtherance of science.
This was the case with the investigational compound, CEP-1347 for Parkinson’s disease. While this compound did not advance to the next level of clinical study, our research provided a valuable resource for the study of risk factors and the rate of progress of Parkinson’s disease. The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has funded several research studies that will use the data generated by Cephalon in its 800 patient study.
But it is not only our scientific expertise and compound pipeline that has transformed the company from a start-up that was the vision of our founder, Dr. Frank Baldino, Jr., to an international biopharmaceutical leader. It is the flexibility and empowerment inherent in our R&D organization that defines our culture and the ability of all our employees to contribute to our drug discovery efforts. Drug discovery science is a dynamic, data driven endeavor and while some of the new compounds we advance will never reach the market, the culture that drives our R&D efforts is a constant that will ensure our ability to continue our scientific excellence in the quest for new treatments for human disease.
JEFF VAUGHT, PH.D.
Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer
Research is a marathon, not a sprint. It has taken more than a decade of research, passion and dedication for us to reach this point. But we’re willing to attack complex diseases and invest in products of the future.