Carlos Díaz Ufano is defending his thesis: "Facing experimental challenges without immediate answers helped me strengthen my capacity for critical thinking"

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Carlos Díaz Ufano is going to defend his thesis on Tuesday, 1st of July of 2025. Entitled as Nanopartículas magnéticas: síntesis verde para remediación y electrónica sostenibles', his work has been supervised by Sabino Veintemillas at MaMBio group at the Materials Science Institute of Madrid.

Why did you choose ICMM for your PhD?

I chose the Institute of Materials Science because it was the first place to give me the opportunity to carry out my lab work as a young researcher. Moreover, this center has allowed me to work closely with leading figures in the field of nanomaterials, especially magnetic nanoparticles, such as Dr. María del Puerto Morales and Dr. Sabino Veintemillas, whose work has had a significant impact in this area.

How would you explain your research to a non-scientific audience?

Imagine a material so small you can't see with even the most powerful microscopes (yet it can clean polluted water, help reduce electronic waste and behave like a magnet at the same time). That’s what my research is about.

I work with magnetic nanoparticles (tiny particles made of iron or similar materials). These particles have special properties because of their small size. In my research, I create them using environmentally friendly methods (avoiding harmful chemicals to make the process safer for both people and the planet).

Once produced, these nanoparticles can be used to remove toxic substances from water (such as industrial dyes). I discovered that when pollutants stick to the surface of these particles, they can be broken down more efficiently (especially when we apply a magnetic field, which boosts the process without adding heat or chemicals).

I am also studying how these particles can be used in biodegradable electronics (like conductive inks that eventually break down safely instead of turning into harmful electronic waste). 

In short, my research explores how nanotechnology can help us fight pollution and reduce waste, while keeping the entire process clean and sustainable.

What are the main applications of your research? Could you give us an example?

The main applications of my research are environmental cleanup and sustainable electronics (but a key part of my work also focuses on developing new synthesis processes to improve how these materials are made).

Many conventional methods for producing nanoparticles use toxic chemicals or generate waste. In my research, I design and optimize eco-friendly synthesis routes (that are safer, more efficient, and more sustainable). For example, I have successfully produced metallic nanoparticles without using strong chemical reducing agents (which makes the process much greener).

A practical example of this is the development of magnetic nanoparticles that can be used to remove pollutants from water (such as industrial dyes). These particles not only attract contaminants but also accelerate their breakdown (especially when activated by a magnetic field) which allows for faster and more efficient treatment.

I also apply these materials in the development of biodegradable electronics. I have synthesized nanoparticles that can conduct electricity and be used in biodegradable inks (offering an alternative to traditional electronic components that are difficult to recycle and harmful to the environment).

In summary, my research contributes by both creating useful applications and improving the way nanomaterials are synthesized (following the principles of green chemistry and sustainable technology).

What are the lessons you had learnt here? Which one do you value the most?

On the scientific side, I’ve gained deep insight into the design and optimization of synthesis processes, especially how small variations in experimental parameters (such as temperature, precursor concentration or choice of solvent) can significantly affect the properties and performance of nanomaterials. I also learned the importance of rigorous characterization, attention to detail, and adaptability in the face of unexpected results.

What I value the most, however, is having developed the ability to work independently and critically. I learned to analyze problems calmly, to identify possible causes, and to propose and test solutions systematically. Facing experimental challenges without immediate answers helped me strengthen my capacity for critical thinking and decision-making, even under pressure.
These experiences have taught me not only how to carry out research, but how to navigate uncertainty and take responsibility for moving a project forward, skills I consider essential for any scientific career.

How do you think this experience will contribute to your training and to your future?

On the one hand, the technical knowledge I’ve gained (especially in nanoparticle synthesis, materials characterization, and sustainable process development) will serve as a solid foundation for future projects in both environmental and technological applications.

On the other hand, having learned to work independently, to think critically, and to solve complex problems under real research conditions, I now feel more prepared to face the challenges of a scientific career. Whether I continue in academia or move into industry, these skills will allow me to take initiative, adapt to new contexts, and contribute meaningfully to innovation.

In the future, I see this experience not just as a phase of learning, but as the beginning of a mindset (curious, resilient, and solution-oriented) that I will carry with me throughout my professional path.

What are your plans once you finish your PhD?

Once I finish my PhD, my goal is to continue developing as a researcher, ideally through a postdoctoral position focused on sustainable nanomaterials or environmental technologies.

I want to deepen my expertise in areas like catalysis, green synthesis, and magnetic materials, while also expanding my international experience and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

Why did you become a scientist? Who have been your role models?

I became a scientist because I’ve always been fascinated by the physical and chemical processes behind everyday life. I've felt a strong curiosity to understand what's really happening when we cook, do sports, watch TV, or even just see things change around us. That need to go beyond appearances and explore the "why" and "how" of ordinary experiences is what sparked my interest in science.

Without a doubt, my biggest role model was my high school chemistry teacher. He had a unique ability to turn any everyday object into a lab tool, and every class into a space where he shared his passion for science. His way of teaching made scientific thinking feel natural, creative, and exciting, and that left a lasting impression on me.