Cambridge Research Laboratories

Cambridge Research Laboratories (CRL) was the United States-based drug discovery arm of Organon, a subsidiary of the Dutch conglomerate AkzoNobel. Located in the biotechnology hub of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the laboratory specialized in the identification and development of small molecule therapeutics, with a primary focus on central nervous system (CNS) disorders, immunology, and reproductive health. CRL was particularly recognized for its expertise in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and ion channel pharmacology. The facility played a significant role in the early development of several key Organon programs, including the antipsychotic asenapine. In 2007, CRL was acquired by Schering-Plough as part of its $14.4 billion purchase of Organon BioSciences, and the site was subsequently integrated into Merck & Co. following its merger with Schering-Plough in 2009.