Life-changing nano-solutions: chemistry with real-world impact

Originally, I dreamed of becoming a doctor. But a hospital placement changed everything. When I told a consultant I wanted to help people, he replied: ‘It’s the drugs that help people. Doctors diagnose the problem, but it’s the chemists who make the biggest impact.’ That moment shifted my entire path, and I chose to study chemistry.

My research journey

I grew up in Anfield, Liverpool, in a community which experienced poverty, addiction and unemployment. At school, I struggled with literacy and was eventually diagnosed with dyslexia. But I had a passion for numbers and a natural curiosity for how things work. Maths and problem-solving became my strengths – and ultimately, my way forward in my career.

Despite these challenges, I went on to earn a degree in Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Analysis at the University of Warwick and began working in the pharmaceutical sector developing new therapeutic drugs. That early work sparked a deep interest in molecular design and nanotechnology, leading me to collaborate with world-leading scientists and realise just how powerful chemistry could be in solving real-world challenges.

One of my most formative moments came as a final-year undergraduate, when I saw the X-ray crystal structure of a molecule I had designed and synthesised – the first person in the world to do so. After weeks of trial and error in the lab, that single crystal held the answer. When the X-ray data came through and the structure began to take shape on the screen, there was a kind of magic to it. You’re not just looking at atoms and bonds, you’re seeing an idea made real, something that until that moment existed only in your mind, in theory or in models.

That discovery led to my first academic publication, and I’ve been hooked on making molecules ever since. Early in my research, I began working with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles – which are ideal for tracking drug delivery in the body. Using knowledge I developed through international collaborations, I devised a new process for making these nanoparticles, which led to two patents and laid the foundation for the research I do today.

During the pandemic, I led the development of a government-approved antiviral face mask designed to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect frontline workers and the public around the world. This work was made possible through my spinout company, Pharm2Farm, which I founded to make science more accessible by turning lab research into real-world solutions that improve everyday life.

Seeing something I helped design go on to save lives was incredibly humbling and reaffirmed the purpose behind my work. It showed me the true power of science when it’s applied with urgency, collaboration and a clear focus on impact.

Using chemistry to transform lives

Today at NTU, my research explores how nanotechnology can improve lives – from detecting diseases earlier to advanced drug delivery systems for cancer treatment.

I’ve developed tiny magnetic particles for use in MRI scans, helping doctors make faster, more accurate diagnoses. I’ve also worked with the John van Geest Cancer Research Centre and the Anthony Nolan Trust to design advanced drug delivery systems that aim to treat cancer more precisely, with fewer side effects. It’s research that could one day change how we understand, detect and treat illness.

At its core my research is about applying chemistry with purpose, from tackling healthcare inequalities to designing new technologies that support a greener, healthier world. Through multi-million-pound funding, my team is currently exploring new applications of nanoscience for life-changing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia, as well as investigating sustainable alternatives to everyday chemicals and materials.

The future lies in translating nanoscience into every day, accessible technologies that not only improve lives but also reduce our planetary footprint. I’m proud to be part of a research community that believes in science as a force for good and that is working to build a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.

Follow my story

My story doesn’t end here. Keep up to date with me and my research by visiting my academic profile.

Professor Gareth Cave

Gareth Cave is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Forensics at Nottingham Trent University. His research explores how nanotechnology can improve lives – from detecting diseases at an earlier stage to developing advanced drug delivery systems for cancer treatment.

His team’s research is currently focused on new applications of nanoscience to address life-changing neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and dementia. By advancing nanotechnology, Gareth’s work aims to improve health outcomes and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Discover Gareth's staff profile