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Highlights from Faraday Discussion FDSERS17: Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering – SERS, Cite this: Chem. Commun., 2017, 53, 12726 Glasgow, UK, 30th August–1st September 2017

G. Di Martino, †a H. Fleming,†b M. Kamp †*c and F. Lussier†d

The 2017 Faraday Discussion on Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) attracted more than a hundred delegates from a broad spectrum of backgrounds and experience levels, bringing together DOI: 10.1039/c7cc90411h leading scientists involved in the long living field of SERS. The meeting gave an overview of the liveliness of the topic, characterised by open questions and fascinating science still to discover. In the following, rsc.li/chemcomm we discuss the topics covered during this meeting and briefly highlight the content of each presentation.

On 30th August 2017, around 140 delegates with the format of Faraday Discussions, Opening lecture representing 30 diﬀerent countries all of the speakers submitted a paper gathered in a remarkably sunny Glasgow, prior to this meeting, which was made With his 45 minute opening lecture, at the University of Strathclyde, to attend available for all of the participants to read Prof. R. Van Duyne set the scene for the the 2017 Faraday Discussion on Surface before the event. During their respective discussion, providing a stimulating and Enhanced Raman Scattering (Fig. 1). sessions, the presenters were given wide-ranging introduction to the field of ‘‘The discussion meeting brought together 5 minutes each to briefly summarize SERS. Prof. Van Duyne noted that the a real mix of SERS researchers embracing the main findings of their work, followed previous Faraday Discussions on SERS chemistry, physics, and engineering. It by an open discussion with 30 minutes date back to 2005, demonstrating how mixed theory, modelling and experimental allotted for public and live peer review of this topic is still vibrant after more than approaches together to produce a holistic each article contributed. ten years. In spite of SERS being an

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. view of the state of the art in SERS’’, The discussions were preceded by a established field, there are still several observed Prof. D. Graham (University of brief introduction from Prof. D. Graham dynamics to understand and interesting Strathclyde, UK). on the topic of the meeting (Fig. 2a) new directions to investigate, from strong The Faraday Discussions are unique and an introduction to the Faraday coupling to the interconnection between international discussion meetings that Discussions’ format by the RSC Publishing physics and chemistry to name a few. focus on rapidly developing areas of Editors for the event, Sarah Sharp and Prof. R. Van Duyne ended his lecture chemistry and their interfaces with other Alexander Whiteside. The president of with some open questions: ‘‘Is the metal scientific disciplines. The Discussions the Faraday Society Prof. E. Campbell altering the molecule’s charge transfer? Can were founded in 1902; it was an idea (University of Edinburgh, UK) conferred we deal with things that do not easily conceived by Frederick S. Spiers who the Spiers Memorial Award to Prof. R. bind to surfaces?’’ The discussions could later became the Faraday Discussions Van Duyne (Northwestern University, then start. Secretary of the Faraday Society. In line USA) for his outstanding contribution to the SERS community (Fig. 2b). The meeting was divided into four Session 1 – The theory of sessions, which focused on particular a NanoPhotonics Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, SERS enhancement aspects of SERS: (1) the theory of SERS University of Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK b EaStCHEM, School of Chemistry, enhancement, (2) ultrasensitive and Understanding the SERS from nano- University of Edinburgh, EH9 3FJ Edinburgh, UK towards single molecule SERS, (3) SERS in structures is still an area of intense interest, c Melville Laboratory for Polymer Synthesis, biology/biomedical SERS and (4) Analytical as experiments become more robust and University of Cambridge, CB2 1EW, UK. SERS. The opening lecture was given by evolve to show discrepancies. This session E-mail: [email protected] d Prof. R. Van Duyne, while the concluding Department of Chemistry, Universite´ de Montre´al, covered a fascinating range, from the H3C 3J7, Canada remarks were given by Prof. M. Porter fundamentals of the SERS and TERS process † All authors contributed equally. (University of Utah, USA). using a quantum mechanical description via

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Fig. 1 All of the delegates participating in the Faraday Discussion: Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering – SERS held on 30th August – 1st September in Glasgow, UK. Photo taken by Mr Y. Li, Royal Society of Chemistry.

modelling for these systems (DOI: 10.1039/ C7FD00128B). The last talk of the session faced the still strongly debated contribution of chemical mechanisms to the SERS enhancement. Here Prof. G. Schatz (Northwestern University, USA) presented theoretical modelling of voltage effects and the chemical mechanism in SERS, investigating the role of charge transfer (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00122C). Fig. 2 (a) Prof. D. Graham gives a short introduction to the meeting. (b) Prof. R. Van Duyne receives According to Prof. J. Baumberg the Spiers Memorial Award from the president of the Faraday Society, Prof. E. Campbell. (University of Cambridge, UK), who chaired this session, ‘‘getting the quantum description correct is a major advance and the realisation

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. that this mirrors the optomechanical calculations of real EM enhancements, single-walled carbon nanotubes become descriptions which emerged in physics within to the effects of applied voltages and ideal probes for quantifying plasmonic the last 5 years provides important insights semiconductor surfaces in SERS. The enhancement in a Raman experiment which will help develop the field of coherent session started with Prof. J. Aizpurua (Fig. 3). Having the molecules chemically Raman spectroscopies. Modelling of specific (Centre for Materials Physics, San Sebastian, protected through the nanotube wall and systems is also of much interest. Using Spain), who discussed the different levels spatially isolated from the metal prevents carbon nanotubes as micro-vessels attached of approximation for the methodological enhancement by chemical means and to plasmonics resonators, or semiconductor solution of the optomechanical Hamiltonian through surface roughness, making a surfaces, or tip geometries under bias, all of a generic SERS configuration, underlining step forward in distinguishing the different take better-understood theories and for us their different approaches to the phonon components contributing to such enhance- to try and apply them in new contexts.’’ population (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00145B). ment (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00127D). The From his point of view, ‘‘the CNT loading is The following talk presented by L. Velleman theory of SERS on semiconductor nano- just at a first step and more work will be very (Imperial College London, UK) focused particles was then discussed by Prof. valuable. Experimental data for this and the on improving the understanding of nano- J. Lombardi (City College of New York, other systems is crucial to provide verification particle assembly processes at liquid– USA) with the aim of the optimization of of some of the predictions made and this is liquid interfaces, with the aim of working SERS sensors (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00138J). at an early stage. The theories will have to towards finely controlling their structure and Dr P. Dawson (Queens University Belfast, be modified in light of this. Finally, the producing tailored optical and enhanced UK) addressed the two systems of a tip– introduction of further tuneable plasmonics Raman signals (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00162B). substrate system yielding tip-enhanced at liquid surfaces is starting to become Prof. S. Reich (Freie Universita¨t Berlin, Raman scattering (TERS) and structures viable and is of much intrigue.’’ The very Germany) presented a very interesting supporting hybrid plasmon-waveguide large number and range of questions study where organic dyes encapsulated in (HPWG) modes for SERS, offering schematic in this session shows the liveliness of

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one-step detection of the modified target miRNA and (2) two-step capturing and labelled DNA probes for label-free miRNA sensing. The direct quantification of miRNA-222 in RNA cellular extract was then demonstrated, showing the feasibility of the detection and quantification of miRNAs in real biological samples for clinical applications. According to Prof. J. Edel (Imperial College London, UK), chair of the session, one of the biggest challenges is related to the Fig. 3 (a) The geometry of a plasmonic nanodimer on a SiO2/Si substrate. (b) Exemplary nanodimer between the electrodes used for the dielectrophoresis. (c) SEM images of 6T@CNT after deposition. selectivity of SERS at low concentrations, The scale bars in (b) and (c) are 200 nm. Reproduced from DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00127D with since single molecule detection usually permission from The Royal Society of Chemistry. implies the presence of spectral features, e.g. blinking (on/off signal), variation in the Raman band relative intensities and the interest and the emerging science that DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00164A). She evidenced also variation in the frequency of specific continues to develop. how current literature failed to show the Raman bands. Another important point impact of both fundamental parameters discussed during the session was how and their synergistic effect on reaching efficiently we can screen for specific Session 2 – Ultrasensitive the single molecule regime. Compared target analytes in complex mixtures with and towards single to typical AFM-based TERS set-ups, highly sensitive sensors. In addition to molecule SERS STM-TERS coupling provided a higher high selectivity, SERS also has a great enhancement (a couple of orders of capability for multiplexing on account of The second session of this Faraday magnitude), allowing single molecule its intrinsic small bandwidth. However, Discussion focused on how the great detection in liquids. Prof. K. Willets although SERS has a high multiplexing sensitivity of SERS can be pushed towards (Temple University, USA) presented how potential compared to its most renowned the single molecule detection regime. the SERS emission patterns of nano- competitor, fluorescence, few examples Prof. V. Deckert (Friedrich Schiller University particles on a mirror (Fig. 4) provide insight of true multiplexing SERS are currently Jena, Germany) opened the session by into the position of a molecule within present in the literature. Finally, an essential describing the advantage of tip enhanced the plasmonic hot-spot (DOI: 10.1039/ requirement for quantitative results is the Raman scattering (TERS) to enable the C7FD00163K). Moreover, the quality of use of reproducible and highly sensitive

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. localized plasmon-mediated polymerization the substrate strongly impacted how the SERS substrates in order to ensure routinely of D3ATP by directing the tip to a specific gap plasmon-mediated emission couples quantitative measurements over a large location. TERS was also used to simulta- to the far field and this is becoming an dynamic range. neously catalyse the reaction and interesting tool to investigate the hetero- detect structural changes (DOI: 10.1039/ geneity of a SERS substrate. Prof. K. C7FD00157F). Prof. K. Hewitt (Dalhousie Murakoshi (Hokkaido University, Japan) Session 3 – SERS in University, Canada) then demonstrated then described how electrochemical biology/biomedical SERS the possibility of using a low-power control over a plasmonic nanostructure continuous wave (CW) laser source for can be used to enhance the SERS The third session of the meeting explored surface enhanced-stimulated Raman response of an adsorbed dye molecule the use of SERS in biological and bio- Scattering (SE-SRS) using metallic nano- (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00126F). By changing medical applications. Covering a range of particles (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00137A). the redox state of the dye, the coupling interesting areas, from the in situ synthesis SE-SRS was successfully used to probe strength between the localized surface of nanoparticles in bacteria, approaches commercial Raman-active nanoparticles, plasmon and the dye can be optimized, to measuring enzyme activity and the suggesting the potential application of leading to an increased Raman intensity. quantification of proteins, and sensing stimulated Raman to probe the cellular The session was closed by Prof. F. Giorgis near neurons using dynamic-SERS (D-SERS), environment. The influence of diﬀerent (Politecnico di Torino, Italy) presenting to topics on the variation of SERS measure- scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) novel SERS-active metal–dielectric nano- ments in biological systems, which lead parameters (i.e. current set point and structures integrated in microfluidic devices to an involved discussion on the repro- bias voltage between the tip and sample) for the label-free quantitative detection of ducibility of SERS experiments. Starting on the TERS response was then discussed miRNA (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00140A). The the session, Prof. R. Goodacre (University by Miss N. Martı´n Sabane´s (Max Planck described SERS-based biosensor was of Manchester, UK) presented a technique Institute for Polymer Research, Germany; optimized in two different ways: (1) direct in which E. coli bacteria were quantitatively

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Fig. 6 Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image of the D-SERS nanosensor coated with nanoraspberries. Adapted from DOI: 10.1039/ C7FD00131B with permission from The Royal Society of Chemistry.

approach for neurotransmitter sensing near neurons throughout multiple stimulated Fig. 4 Theoretical calculations of the emission from a single dipole at a glass–air interface with j = dopamine secretion cycles (DOI: 10. 01 and y varying from 01 to 301. Adapted from DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00163K with permission from the Royal Society of Chemistry. 1039/C7FD00131B and Fig. 6). This novel technique, referred to as dynamic SERS optophysiology (D-SERS), allowed the detected through isotopically enriching the and multiplexed measurements of protease multiplex sensing of five neurotransmitters bacteria (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00150A). activity (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00124J). under physiological conditions and Through exposure to 12C/13C-glucose and After a short break, the session resumed constitutes a strong proof-of-concept for 14N/15N-ammonium chloride, coupled with with a method of detecting galectin in the potential application of SERS to study the in situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles real-time using glycan-decorated gold normal and pathological cellular functions. (forming on the outside of the bacteria), nanoparticles, presented by J. Langer The ability to acquire SERS data without the isotope levels of the enriched E. coli (CIC biomaGUNE, Spain). By altering altering the biological sample in any way could be quantified using SERS (Fig. 5). the densities of the Raman reporters on has been a difficult feat, and therefore The following talk by Mr P. C. Wuytens the surface of the gold nanoparticles, the reproducibility has been a problem for (Ghent University, Belgium) described a aggregation dynamics of the particles could SERS on biological samples. Using immuno- Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. label-free approach to measuring trypsin be tuned (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00123A). Prof. Raman microspectroscopy (iSERS), the activity by monitoring the cleavage of a J.-F. Masson (University of Montreal, repeated imaging of a single cell was peptide decorated on gold nanodomes, with Canada) followed up by presenting demonstrated by Prof. S. Schlu¨cker a view to being able to conduct both single an interesting semi-quantitative SERS (University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany; DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00135E). In the closing paper of the session, the focus was on the highly debated issue of ‘‘What do we actually see in intracellular SERS?’’ (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00156H). Prof. S. Mahajan (University of Southampton, UK) explored the extent of how experimental conditions can affect gold nanoparticle internalisation, whichinturnaffectcellmetabolismand induce changes. The discussion on the topic afforded the consensus that there is a need to move toward a standard methodology of nanoparticle treatments in order to validate intracellular SERS experiments. Prof. K. Faulds (University of Strath- clyde, UK), chair of the session, remarked: Fig. 5 Prof. R. Goodacre speaks in the third session: SERS in biology/biomedical SERS (Photo taken by Prof. D. Graham). Graph: PC-DFA scores plot of the pre-processed SERS spectral data of E. coli cells ‘‘Biological and biomedical SERS has cultivated on different ratios of unlabelled (12Cand14N) and isotopically labelled 13Cand/or15Ngrowth advanced greatly in the last 20 years and, substrates. Adapted from DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00150A with permission from the Royal Society of Chemistry. in particular, since the first Faraday SERS

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meeting in 2005. The applications covered at episode of Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) ‘‘The field of SERS has a very low entry level the meeting ranged from bacterial and which contains a SERS-based instrument, because nanoparticles can now be produced cell imaging to in vitro assays for enzyme however such SERS-based devices are not easily following published literature. This activity, small molecule and protein detection. yet widely available. Potential applications reflects in a large body of work and citations One of the greatest achievements in the brought forward in the session were: on SERS. However, the actual number of user field is that we are now able to routinely the detection of methanol in alcoholic products based on SERS is quite low. We can make sensitive, quantitative measurements beverages (Dr B. de Nijs), the study infer that translating SERS to markets is not and obtain rapid, high resolution images of processes in electrochemical cells easy.’’ A frequently suggested reason for from single cells/bacteria that give us a (Dr G. Di Martino) and batteries (Prof. this discrepancy is the problem with huge amount of information about a system. L. Hardwick), and the analysis of the reproducibility between SERS studies, but One of the biggest challenges in biological composition of DNA (Prof. S. Bell). Prof. R. Goodacre reminded the delegates SERS is standardisation of approaches. The morning part of the session was that ‘‘SERS is often ‘undersold’ as not Differences between research groups in opened by Prof. Z.-Q. Tian (Xiamen reproducible. However, in general it is very synthesising and functionalising nanoparticles University, China) with a fascinating talk reproducible. The issue is that different result in slightly different surface chemistry, on expanding the use of SERS to non- applications require different platforms SERS response and toxicity. This affects the traditional (weakly SERS-active) substrates and substrates.’’ In several presentations, reproducibility of experiments between and even to non-SERS-active substrates experimental and computational techniques different laboratories and as a community such as aluminium oxide (DOI: 10.1039/ were mentioned which can indeed handle we need to ensure that all conditions, the C7FD00144D, see Fig. 7). In the second such sources of variability, among which are appropriate characterisation techniques talk, Prof. L. Hardwick (University of principle component analysis (Prof. R. utilized (particle size, zeta potential, Liverpool, UK) showed how SHINERS Goodacre, Dr B. de Nijs), the Rayleigh extinction), and that the synthesis methods, can be exploited to study chemical processes band intensity (Prof. P. Vikesland) and buffers/media used, and measuring cellular at the surfaces of battery electrode materials, internal standards (Prof. R. Van Duyne). uptake and toxicity, are all carefully both on the lithium metal anode and carbon After a coffee break, the session on

reported. These issues, as well as the use cathode of a LiO2 cell (DOI: 10.1039/ Analytical SERS resumed with Prof. S. of robust and reliable data analysis methods, C7FD00151G). Prof. P. Vikesland (Virginia Bell (Queen’s University Belfast, UK) who were discussed during the meeting.’’ Tech, USA) discussed how to use the presented exciting work on the quantitative Rayleigh band intensity as a parameter detection of oligonucleotides using SERS for the normalization of SERS intensity (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00134G). He showed Session 4 – Analytical (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00125H). Finally, that even though spectral changes when SERS Dr B. de Nijs (University of Cambridge, adding a single nucleotide to the 30 UK) demonstrated that SERS is able terminus are small (Fig. 8), the signal- The final session of the conference explore the local environment in a nano- to-noise levels in these SERS spectra

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. demonstrated the broad potential for gap as it is sensitive to the different are low enough that difference spectra SERS to also be used as an analytical tool configurational states of molecules and can be used to detect the nucleotide by outside of biomedical SERS, and investi- even allows for the detection of hydrogen comparing them with nucleobase reference gated the challenges to progress SERS bonding (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00147A). In spectra. Moreover, the SERS DNA chain from a lab-based technique to the markets. his talk, Prof. Z.-Q. Tian remarked on the signal is also influenced by the secondary Prof. R. Van Duyne remembered the exact importance of translating SERS to markets: structure (coiling) of the chain, an effect which was eliminated by thermal pre-treatment, which uncoils the chains. Dr G. Di Martino (University of Cambridge, UK) presented an exciting study into the optical response of individual nm-wide plasmonic nanocavities, created by fabri- cating nanoparticle-on-mirror geometry (NPoM) inside an electrochemical cell (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00130D, see Fig. 9). She showed that the SERS response (peak intensity, resonance full width at half maximum (FWHM), and the spectral position of the coupled plasmon mode) is influenced by the bias voltage and discussed four scenarios which potentially Fig. 7 Different strategies to probe SERS-active materials and inactive materials. Adapted from DOI: induce these changes. The scenarios 10.1039/C7FD00144D with permission from the Royal Society of Chemistry. are ion penetration into the SAM, the

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gold surfaces, the design of special recognition molecules changing their Raman signal while interacting with the analyte of interest due to conformational changes will be the solution. Finally, medical and in vivo SERS applications via smart SERS tags modified with antibodies or aptamers allowing for a specific interaction of biomarkers to detect e.g. tumour cells in bloodortissuewillbeanimportantSERStopic within the next years.’’ Several themes recurred in all four sessions (Fig. 10). First, the use of the NPoM geometry as a versatile platform for SERS was present transversally in all of the sessions. Examples include opto-mechanics studies in NPoM geometry Fig. 8 Prof. S. Bell speaks in the fourth session: Analytical SERS. Graphs: raw SERS spectra of ODN (Prof. J. Aizpurua) in session 1, dynamic sequences showing the eﬀect of adding nucleobases at the 30 end on the spectra. Adapted from heterogeneity on account of molecular DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00134G with permission from the Royal Society of Chemistry. motion inside the hot spots (Prof. K. Willets) in session 2, NPoMs of weakly and strongly SERS-active materials (Prof. Z. Q. Tian) and NPoM in electrochemical cells (Dr G. Di Martino) in session 4. Tip-enhanced Raman Spectroscopy or TERS frequently recurred as a versatile platform as well, sparking a discussion on whether (coupled) plasmons on the tip of a TERS probe are aﬀected by the tip’s shape. Prof. R. Van Duyne pinpointed the Fig. 9 Left panel: Optically transparent thin (sub-mm) electrochemical cell for spectroscopy of advantage of TERS in his opening lecture single Au NPs on molecular layer on Au. Right panel: SERS intensity time evolution under an applied as ‘‘TERS combines the sensitivity of Raman voltage of 0 V (black) to 1.2 V (blue). Adapted from DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00130D with permission from The Royal Society of Chemistry. with the spatial resolution of AFM/STM’’. Finally, the chemical and plasmonic

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. contributions to SERS signals were potential driven movement of the double perspective on Analytical SERS: ‘‘The key another recurring point of interest (e.g. layer changing the local refractive index, for moving SERS into routine analytics is to Prof. S. Reich). electronic coulombic scattering from improve the reproducibility of nanostructured Also in this session, Prof. D. Graham individual ionic charges in the double SERS surfaces as well as the ability to perform pinpointed important future directions

layer, and H2 gas formation around the quantitative SERS analysis. In this context, of the field as the ‘‘design and use of AuNP. Finally, J. Guicheteau (RDECOM shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman alternatives to plasmonic materials for Edgewood Chemical Biological Center, USA) spectroscopy (SHINERS) will be an important enhancement and a move to quantitative discussed the influence of various synthesis step towards the reproducible characterization SERS for meaningful applications where protocols on SERS enhancement, as well as of the chemical composition of surfaces having other techniques such as fluorescence fail, the role of thermodynamics during substrate inorganic, organic or biological origins. e.g. bioanalysis.’’ formation (DOI: 10.1039/C7FD00141J). The quantification of analyte molecules can The protocols were drop and dry on a be significantly improved by employing inter- substrate, leave the substrate in solution nal standards to address variations in the Socials and poster sessions for a constant time and volume, and SERS activity. Moreover, the direct label-free immerse until equilibrium is reached. SERS method is best suited for the analysis/ The program of the meeting allowed for To express the advantage of SERS over detection of low-molecular weight substances sufficient time to socialize and interact, normal Raman sensing for a given protocol with high affinity toward the metallic surface. for example during the tea times and and analyte, a figure of merit termed Thus, an intrinsic sample preparation step is lunches between sessions (Fig. 11a). the SERS enhancement value (SEV) was included to enrich molecules with high affinity The poster sessions at the end of each proposed. from complex matrices such as environmen- day were a particularly interesting oppor- Chair of the session Prof. J. Popp tal samples or human body fluids. To detect tunity to engage in scientific discussions (Leibniz-IPHT, Germany) gave his molecules with less affinity toward silver or and were busily attended (Fig. 11b). All of

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Fig. 10 Impressions of discussions in each session of FDSERS17. (a) Prof. J. Baumberg addresses the audience during the first session. (b) Prof. J. Edel chairs a discussion in the second session. Speakers are Prof. F. Giorgis, Prof. K. Murakoshi, and Prof. K. Willets (seated, left to right). (c) Prof. K. Faulds leads a discussion in the third session. Speakers are Prof. J.-F. Masson, Prof. S. Schlu¨cker and Mrs J. Langer (seated, left to right) and Prof. S. Mahajan (standing, on the right) taking part in the discussion. (d) Prof. J. Popp presides a discussion in the fourth session. Speakers are Dr B. de Nijs, Prof. P. Vikesland, Prof. L. Hardwick (seated, left to right) and Prof. Z.-Q. Tian (standing, on the right). Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. the posters had been briefly introduced (University of Southampton, UK). As is covered during the Discussion. He during the sessions in the form of lightning tradition, the dinner was closed with the stressed the fact that more work on theory presentations, in order to kick-start the Loving Cup ceremony (Fig. 11d). This needs to be done, and pointed out that conversations. ‘‘The poster sessions were silver cup, which dates back to 1728 and most of the presented knowledge comes really vibrant and I have new collaborations was crafted by lady silversmith Heslie from empirical work. Moreover, he under- already starting based on discussions’’ Fawdery, is used to commemorate G. S. lined the presence of a fragmentation of remarked Prof. D. Graham. Marlow (Secretary and Editor, 1928–1947) knowledge, inviting the audience to think Another excellent opportunity to net- and Angela & Tony Fish (Angela organised about whether ‘‘we are focusing too much work was incorporated into the programme the Faraday Discussions 1968–1995). on the physics and forgetting about the in the form of the Conference Dinner. The ceremony involves taking a sip and chemistry’’. The view is shared by Prof. D. The delegates enjoyed a delicious three- passing the cup along via an intricate Graham who identifies ‘‘a challenge for course meal on Thursday night at the series of bows, which led to the occasional theory and modelling to be more predictive Supper Club, close to George Square. head bump. in leading the experimentalists’ design of Prof. E. Campbell gave a formidable experiments’’. speech on her experiences as the president The 2017 Faraday Discussion on SERS of the Faraday Society and in particular Concluding remarks has been a vibrant and stimulating meeting. during the current Faraday Discussion. lecture Its success was obvious during the dis- She also conferred the poster prizes, with cussion sessions, through the abundance Mr W. Lum (University of Cincinnati, USA) The concluding remarks were presented of questions and remarks (more than winning first prize (Fig. 11c) and the by Prof. M. Porter (University of Utah, 60 per session!), which often forced the runners up being Mr N. Bontempi USA). He recapitulated the meeting by session chairs to conclude the discussions (University of Brescia, Italy) and Mrs R. Kidd giving a brief overview of all of the topics prematurely due to time restrictions.

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Fig. 11 Socials and Poster Sessions. (a) Lively discussions happening during the coﬀee break. (b) The first poster session is about to begin. (c) Mr W. Lum is presented with the first Poster Prize by Prof. E Campbell during the Conference Dinner. (d) The Loving Cup changes hands during the Ceremony at the end of the Conference Dinner.

Published on 16 November 2017. Downloaded 05/12/2017 16:29:22. Acknowledgements ported by funding from the European number EP/L016559/1 and the School Research Council (ERC) under the of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh. We acknowledge financial support from European Union’s Horizon 2020 research F. L. was supported by funding from the EP/G060649/1, EP/L027151/1, EP/G037221/1, and innovation programme (MSCA-IF- Natural Science and Engineering Research EP/N020669/1, EPSRC NanoDTC, and ERC 2015-EF SPARCLEs 7020005). H. F. was Council (NSERC) of Canada. grant LINASS 320503. M. K. was sup- supported by the EPSRC and MRC grant