Proton-based neuromorphic computing in 2D crystals

The electrochemical hydrogenation of graphene has been recently shown to induce a robust and reversible conductor-insulator transition, which is of strong interest in logic and memory applications. We showed that this process can be driven with independent control of the electric field, E, and charge carrier density, n, in the crystal using a technique known as double gating. We also found that with this technique proton transport through the crystal itself can be accelerated such that graphene becomes effectively transparent to protons. These two degrees of freedom: proton transport through the crystal and the conductor-insulator transition in the electronic system triggered by proton adsorption can be used to perform simultaneous logic and memory operations in graphene (Tong, J. et al. Nature 2024).

This finding opens a new avenue to control proton and ion transport in 2D systems that we will use to study neuromorphic computing using protons in 2D materials. You will learn how to fabricate 2D devices and control their electronic properties with electrolyte gates using precision electrical measurements. You will learn state-of-the-art microfabrication techniques, mass spectrometry, electrical measurements and a range of characterisation techniques (e.g. SEM, AFM, Raman, XRD). You will work with a highly motivated group with a diverse technical expertise including Physics, Chemistry and Material Science. You will also collaborate with several groups within the University of Manchester as well as with research institutes in the UK, Belgium and abroad.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5 year PhD is fully funded for a home or overseas student; tuition fees will be paid and you will receive a tax free stipend based on the UKRI rate (£19,237 for 2024/25). We expect this amount to increase each year.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor(s) for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing [Email Address Removed].

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).