About Cyterra.
Our History.
Cyterra is a Mainz-based biotechnology company developing programmable terpene chemistry for the next generation of natural ingredients.
The company originated from years of pioneering biocatalysis research in the lab of Prof. Bernhard Hauer, where the scientific foundation for reprogramming terpene-transforming enzymes was established. Building on this expertise, Cyterra translates advanced enzyme engineering into practical manufacturing routes for fragrances, flavors, active ingredients, and other high-value natural products.
Our platform is guided by chemical principles and combines enzyme discovery, bioinformatics, protein engineering, reaction design, and process development to access terpene structures that are difficult, inefficient, or impossible to produce by conventional chemistry, plant extraction, or fermentation.
We are driven by a simple belief: nature does not need to be copied. It can be understood and redesigned to transform abundant starting material or man-made side streams into valuable products.
Our Promise.
Once we align on a target molecule, Cyterra moves from concept to first sample in less than six months.
This speed turns molecule development into a rapid evolution cycle: every sample generates real olfactive, performance and process feedback that immediately guides the next design.
Instead of waiting years to learn whether a molecule has commercial potential, partners can explore, refine and select better candidates in fast, evidence-driven iterations.
Our Compass.
01 Science
is our starting point: we build on deep mechanistic understanding to unlock chemistry others cannot reach.
02 Applicability
is our filter: every breakthrough must solve a real customer need and create tangible product value.
03 Scalability
is our ambition: we design technologies that can move from first sample to industrial relevance.
04 Discipline
is our operating principle: we execute with clear priorities, measurable milestones and relentless focus on delivery.