The interdisciplinary session explores how light reshapes chemistry and physics at material surfaces. From semiconductor photocatalysis and plasmon-induced hot electrons to enhanced electromagnetic fields enabling advanced sensing, energy transfer, polaritonics, and nanoscale lasing. Bringing together experts in catalysis, spectroscopy, plasmonics, and non-equilibrium physics, the colloquium aims to spark new collaborations and fresh perspectives in this rapidly evolving field.

Confirmed invited speakers include Tommaso Giovannini (University of Rome Tor Vergata), Wiebke Albrecht (AMOLF institute Amsterdam), Rohit Chikkaraddy (University of Birmingham), and Zsuzsanna Koczor-Benda (University of Warwick).

Contributed talks and posters are welcome! Snacks, drinks, and plenty of networking will be provided.

The event takes place within the OePG-CMD-Graz2026 – 32^nd Meeting of the Condensed Matter Division of the European Physical Society and 75^th Annual Meeting of the Austrian Physical Society, held 20–25 September 2026 at the Graz Center of Physics, Austria.