What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Colloid Chemist – Nanoparticle Manufacturing position at Nanotherm Therapeutics, Inc.?
This is an ON-SITE position in Wilmington, DE with NO relocation or Visa Sponsorship available at this time.
Company Overview
Nanotherm Therapeutics Inc. is an innovative medical device company transforming localized cancer treatment through the use of magnetic nanoparticle technology. We pioneer NanoTherm® therapy, a groundbreaking approach that utilizes superparamagnetic nanoparticles and an external magnetic field to selectively destroy tumor cells, offering new hope in oncology. Our team is passionate about advancing patient care through cutting-edge science and transformative therapies, and we are looking for driven individuals to join us in this mission.
Job Summary
Nanotherm Therapeutics seeks an experienced Colloid Chemist to oversee and execute the GMP-compliant synthesis of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for our clinical NanoTherm® product line.
This is a hands-on manufacturing chemistry role—not a research position—focused on the reproducible, large-scale production of stable magnetic nanoparticle colloids in aqueous media.
The ideal candidate has direct SPION or iron oxide nanoparticle synthesis experience, understands colloid stability, surface coatings, and dispersion behavior, and is comfortable working under oxygen-free (nitrogen/argon) reaction conditions. This position owns the SPION production process under Quality Management oversight and ensures consistent, high-quality manufacturing output.
Key Responsibilities
SPION Synthesis & Colloid Chemistry
- Perform wet chemical co-precipitation and iron oxide nanoparticle formation under validated conditions.
- Conduct synthesis under inert gas (nitrogen or argon) to control oxidation states.
- Apply stabilizing surface coatings (e.g., dextran or other polymers) to maintain colloidal stability.
- Control reaction parameters: pH, ionic strength, temperature, mixing speed, and reagent addition profiles.
Production Execution & Scale-Up
- Execute and oversee end-to-end SPION batch production.
- Operate reactors, temperature-controlled systems, filtration/dialysis units, and concentration equipment.
- Monitor colloid stability, particle size distribution, and coating integrity.
- Ensure batch reproducibility and adherence to GMP manufacturing protocols.
Analytical Characterization
- Perform or oversee QC analysis, including:
- Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
- Zeta potential
- Iron quantification (ICP or equivalent methods)
- Magnetic responsiveness testing
- Coating efficiency
Quality & Documentation
- Work within FDA and cGMP regulatory frameworks.
- Maintain detailed batch records, raw data, solution prep logs, and deviation reports.
- Collaborate with QA on change control, investigations, and continuous improvement.
Collaboration & Leadership
- Partner with Quality, Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure efficient production.
- Train, guide, or supervise junior staff supporting the manufacturing workflow.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Colloid Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- Direct, hands-on experience synthesizing SPIONs or similar colloidal nanoparticles.
- Experience performing wet chemistry under nitrogen/argon inert atmospheres.
- Strong understanding of colloid stability, surface functionality, and nanoparticle dispersion.
- Minimum 3 years experience in nanoparticle synthesis (industry or academic with scale-up experience).
- Hands-on use of reactors, filtration/dialysis equipment, and nanoparticle analytical tools.
- Experience working in GMP, IVD, or medical device production environments.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience scaling colloidal nanoparticle synthesis from lab-scale to production-scale.
- Familiarity with dextran-coated or polymer-coated iron oxide nanoparticles.
- Experience with TEM, ICP, magnetic separation assays, or other advanced characterization tools.
Work Environment
- On-site in Wilmington, DE in lab and cleanroom production areas.
- Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm with occasional weekend or evening work as needed.
- Work involves chemical handling, sensitive equipment, and strict GMP procedures.
Physical Requirements
- Stand or walk for extended periods on the production floor.
- Lift and move up to 50 lbs. of equipment or materials.
- Manual dexterity and visual acuity to handle instrumentation and monitor
- processes.
- Wear appropriate PPE and work in cleanroom environments
Equal Opportunity Statement
Nanotherm Therapeutics Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Salary and Benefits
Competitive salary and benefits package. Send Resumes with Letters of Interest