Sergio santander

I am an interdisciplinary scientist with a PhD in Nanomaterials from University College London and A*STAR Singapore, specialising in the synthesis of metallic iron nanoparticles for synergistic magnetic-photothermal cancer therapy. My research sits at the interface of inorganic chemistry and materials physics, developing theragnostic platforms that integrate both imaging and therapeutic functions within a single nanomaterial platform.

Throughout my doctoral training, I have gained end-to-end experience in nanomedicine research—from designing novel synthetic routes for iron-based nanoparticles under inert conditions, through to comprehensive structural and magnetic characterisation using SQUID magnetometry, TEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, and finally to in vitro biological validation via cell culture and cytotoxicity assays. I am particularly passionate about translating fundamental materials science into clinically relevant solutions, and my work has explored applications in magnetic hyperthermia, photothermal therapy, and Fenton catalysis.

I am a proven cross-sector collaborator, having worked with the European Space Agency on nanoparticle behaviour under G-force conditions, and with A*STAR in Singapore on multifunctional diagnostic platforms. I was also a finalist in the UK Telegraph STEM Awards, where I proposed magnetic nanoparticle suspensions to mitigate high G-force effects in aerospace systems.

I am now seeking to apply my expertise in nanomaterial synthesis, characterisation, and biocompatibility assessment within clinical and biological research settings. I thrive in interdisciplinary teams and am motivated by challenges at the bench-to-bedside interface—particularly in targeted drug delivery, translational nanomedicine, and the development of next-generation theranostic agents.

With native fluency in English and Spanish, and a dual British-Spanish nationality, I am comfortable working across international and multilingual environments. I combine rigorous scientific training with a collaborative mindset and a clear focus on real-world impact.

I have collaborated internationally with the European Space Agency, investigating nanoparticle behaviour under simulated G-force conditions for human physiological applications, and with A*STAR in Singapore on multifunctional diagnostic platforms. Previously, I worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Lincoln in partnership with iFormulate Ltd, where I contributed to the development of 'Glyphzap'—a novel herbicidal product—and gained experience in industrial formulation and chromatographic validation.

My technical expertise spans magnetic and plasmonic nanoparticle synthesis, surface functionalisation, advanced characterisation techniques, analytical chemistry, and biological assay methods. I was a finalist in the UK Telegraph STEM Awards, where I designed a magnetic nanoparticle suspension system for aerospace applications with BAE Systems, Leonardo, and MBDA.

I am now seeking to transition my materials science expertise into clinical and biological research environments, applying my skills in nanomaterial design, characterisation, and biocompatibility assessment to address challenges in targeted drug delivery and translational nanomedicine.

I hold a PhD in Nanomaterials from University College London and A*STAR Singapore (thesis submitted, viva passed January 2026), where I specialised in the synthesis of metallic iron nanoparticles for synergistic magnetic-photothermal cancer therapy. My doctoral training encompassed the full pipeline of nanomedicine development: inert-atmosphere synthesis of metallic iron nanoparticles, advanced magnetic characterisation using SQUID magnetometry, photothermal efficiency optimisation under NIR irradiation, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and in vitro biological validation through cell culture and MTT assays.

I completed my MChem in Chemistry at the University of Lincoln with First-Class Honours, gaining extensive training in synthetic inorganic chemistry, analytical techniques, and industrial formulation during my research assistantship with iFormulate Ltd. I am a certified TEM operator at UCL and have received specialised training in Gatan Microscopy Suite, ImageJ for single-particle analysis, and a range of spectroscopic and crystallographic techniques including UV-Vis, Raman, FTIR, and XRD.

I undertook a competitive internship with the European Space Agency, where I trained in applied materials science for aerospace physiology. My training also includes proficiency in 500 MHz NMR spectroscopy, HPLC, GC-MS, and chromatographic purification methods. I am fully versed in aseptic cell culture technique, COSHH, risk assessment, and safe operating procedure development for biological and chemical laboratory environments.