In order to search SciFinder-n, you are required to register for a SciFinder account. Access is provided to you by Penn Libraries and CAS, so, this will not cost you anything. Your account allows you to establish session preferences, create preferred lists of chemical vendors and suppliers, and establish and maintain search alerts. It also helps CAS to ensure that only Penn affiliates are using Penn's SciFinder and SciFinder-n subscription. If you had previously created an account while affiliated with another institution, you will need to create a new account using your Penn e-mail address.
Q: What do I need to obtain a SciFinder account?
A: You will need to register for an account using your first name, last name, and Penn e-mail address. When you begin the registration process, you will be asked to create a user name and password, as well as a security question and answer. Once you have registered, you will receive an automated e-mail containing a confirmation link. Click the link to confirm your account, and then you are ready to search!
Q: I never use my Penn e-mail account. Can I use a different e-mail address instead?
A: No. E-mail domain is one of the ways that CAS controls who is using Penn's SciFinder subscription, so, you must use your Penn e-mail address.
Q: I already have a SciFinder account associated with my last institution. Can I just use that one?
A: No. CAS wants the e-mail domain associated with your account to match the domain of the IP address from which you are searching. Therefore, you will need to establish a new account here at Penn.
Q: I just tried to register, but the system tells me that there's already a user associated with my e-mail. Help!
A: You probably already registered for an account. Please visit https://scifinder.cas.org/password, enter your e-mail address in the form, and answer your security question. You can proceed to request your user name.
Q: I can't remember my password!
A: Penn does not have access to account passwords. Please visit https://scifinder.cas.org/password, enter your user name or e-mail address in the form, and answer your security question. Your password will be reset, and you will receive instructions on how to proceed in an e-mail.
Q: The answer to my security question doesn't work. NOW what do I do?
A: The lovely individuals at the CAS Help Desk will be delighted to assist you. Please visit https://www.cas.org/contact for telephone and e-mail contact information.
Screen shots throughout this guide are taken from SciFinder and are used with permission from CAS. Copyright 2025 American Chemical Society, all rights reserved.
