About the project
Physical reservoir computing is attracting much attention as a simple and energy-efficient option of neuromorphic computing and our focus is to use Micro or Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS) technologies to meet the system requirements of low-power consumption, high device density for high speed processing, and suitable nonlinearity and memory capacity at the same time.
The project is aiming to develop Nano-Opto-Electro-Mechanical Systems (NOEMS) Resonators by using piezoelectric MEMS/NEMS platform. Piezoelectric materials will contribute to improve the conversion of the electrical input to the mechanical displacement significantly, while the optical detection of the displacement via NOEMS can show the best sensitivity for the output. Design of the resonators will be optimised for the purpose of using for physical reservoir computing and the devices will be prototyped by using cleanroom facilities in Southampton.
The supervisory team has strong links with research institutions in Asia and will seek further collaboration opportunities during the project. Successful development of piezoelectric NOEMS resonators will make significant contribution to improve energy efficiency of neuromorphic computing hardware and to open up further opportunities to advance machine learning or artificial intelligence technologies to the next level.
Training to use Southampton cleanroom facilities will be offered.
The School of Electronics & Computer Science is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
