Sensing at the physical limits requires more than improving device sensitivity: it calls for functional nanostructures and complex interfaces capable of converting extremely weak molecular, optical, electrical or mechanical perturbations into robust, readable signals. This session will focus on emerging concepts, materials and devices where nanoscale architecture, interfacial biofunctionalization and collective phenomena enable the detection of rare events, down to the single-molecule or few-molecule regime.

Emphasis will be placed on bio/optoelectronic sensing, nanophotonic and plasmonic platforms, electrolyte-gated and field-effect devices, acoustic and mechanical transducers, infrared and THz approaches, and hybrid material–biointerface systems. Contributions addressing cooperative responses, emergent phenomena in complex interfacial systems, signal amplification, noise limits, selectivity, stability and integration into realistic sensing platforms are especially encouraged.

The session aims to bring together young researchers working across materials science, nanotechnology, photonics, electronics, biophysics and life sciences. By connecting fundamental physical limits with application-driven sensing challenges, the session will provide an interdisciplinary forum to discuss how nanostructured and biofunctional interfaces can open new routes toward ultrasensitive, reliable and scalable detection technologies.