What if noise is the signal? A smarter approach for biosensors and bioelectronics

Title:  What if noise is the signal? A smarter approach for biosensors and bioelectronics

Speaker: Sina Jamali, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University

Abstract: Filtering out the noise in electrochemistry is a common practice. We aim for the highest signal-to-noise ratio, and we should. Yet, it is often the case that the noise itself is a rich source of information, affording mechanistic and kinetic insight. What if we measure the noise explicitly instead of filtering it? Stochastic electrochemistry is coming of age as an analytical approach that transforms electrochemical fluctuations into chemical and biological information. Rather than filtering these fluctuations, their systematic analysis offers new pathways to achieve enhanced selectivity, specificity, and functional insight in biosensors and bioelectronic systems. This presentation will introduce recent advances demonstrating how stochastic electrochemical signals can be harnessed across a range of applications that extend well beyond conventional sensing strategies.

First, a historical use of electrochemical noise in corrosion studies will be discussed. The presentation will then explore examples of how stochastic analysis enables real-time quantification of biofouling and supports emerging applications in biosensors and bioelectronics. [1,2] Frequency-specific features within stochastic signals can be linked to analyte concentration and binding dynamics, introducing a non-destructive approach to selectivity that is inaccessible through steady-state or transient electrochemical measurements alone. Extracting information from intrinsic signal fluctuations enables more reliable, selective, and information-rich measurements, without altering surface chemistry or innate ion flux dynamics. It is envisaged that this will improve diagnostics, wearable and implantable devices, and broader bioanalytical technologies.

Biography: Sina is a Senior Lecturer and leads an independent research group, Electrobiomaterials Nexus, at Griffith University. His work sits at the intersection of electrochemistry, biosensors, and functional materials, with a focus on stochastic electrochemistry, electroactive materials, and biointerfaces. His research aims to develop smarter diagnostic and sensing technologies for health and environmental applications. He works closely with collaborators across different fields to tackle complex biomedical challenges, including real-time physiological monitoring, cellular analysis, and wearable sensors.