Nanoscale Sensors Based on NV Centers in Diamonds: Metrology, Biomedical Applications and Remaining Challenges
Invited Talk
E Moreva1, G Tomagra2, C Stella1, H Shirzad1, E Bernardi1, G Zanelli1, E Losero1, P Traina1, P Apra3, F Picollo4,3, I P Degiovanni1, V Carabelli2, M Genovese1,4
1 Quantum metrology and nano technologies, Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica, Turin, Italy
2 Department of Drug and Science Technology, Università degli studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
3 Physics Department, Università degli studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
4 Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Turin, Italy
Seminar: S7 — Quantum Information Science
Thursday, 9 July 2026 · 16:00 – 16:35
Abstract
Nitrogen-vacancy centres in diamond are the subject of intense investigation due to their unique quantum properties and multifunctional sensing capabilities. Their optical addressability, high sensitivity, and intrinsic biocompatibility enable local, nanoscale measurements of key physical quantities, including temperature, magnetic and electric fields, making them highly attractive for quantum metrology and biomedical sensing. In this work, we present recent advances achieved within a collaboration between the Italian National Metrology Institute (INRiM), the University of Turin, and the Italian National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), focusing on the development and application of diamond-based quantum sensors in metrology and biological systems. We highlight experimental demonstrations of intracellular thermometry, novel sensing schemes for metrology based on dressed spin states, and advances in nanodiamond production for biological applications.
References
- G Petrini, G Tomagra, E Bernardi, et al., Adv. Sci. 9, 2202014 (2022)
- G Zanelli, E Moreva, E Bernardi, et al., Phys. Rev. B 112, 235201 (2025)
- P Aprà, G Zanelli, E Losero, et al., ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces 17, 21589 (2025)