We invite applications for a fully funded joint PhD position in the field of neuromorphic computation with ferromagnetic 2D materials, available in the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University College London and the Quantum technologies department at the National Physical laboratory. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Prof Kurebayashi (UCL)] and Dr Barton (NPL) and join a vibrant research team dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in brain-inspired computation. This project offers a unique opportunity to explore the potential of novel ferromagnetic 2D materials for designing energy-efficient and highly parallel computing architectures that mimic the fundamental principles of the human brain. The project involves a multidisciplinary approach that combines device fabrication, characterization specifically focussed on novel scanning Nitrogen-Vacancy magnetometry as well as exploration of machine learning algorithms and promises to have a significant impact on the development of next-generation computing systems.
At its core, this collaborative project between NPL, University College London (UCL) and quantum industry partners Qzabre will aim tackle this high-level challenge by addressing the potential utilisation of nanomagnetic devices for next generation low-energy neuromorphic hardware. In particular, we will focus on devices based on two-dimensional magnetic materials, where layer-by-layer atomic scale engineering can be utilised to tailor and design desirable device properties. This studentship will also rely on world leading fabrication and characterisation tools at UCL and NPL to underpin investigations on neuromorphic spintronic devices based on the room temperature ferromagnetic 2D materials. Additionally, a key element of this work will lie in the development of cutting-edge scanning Nitrogen Vacancy (NV) magnetometry which will be used to characterised nanoscale magnetic fields of the 2D devices produced. This project aims to raise the industrial impact of spintronic applications in the UK and global fora, where there is genuine promise for the realisation of novel technologies that will have a positive impact.
The successful candidate gain experience in a wide variety of disciplines throughout their project. This will include fabrication of novel 2D ferromagnetic heterostructures, electrical transport and magnetic (local NV and bulk) characterisation measurements, in addition to building on data analysis tools to interpret the experimental results supported by both research groups. It is anticipated that the candidate will travel internationally to disseminate their latest research results and to interact with scientists in the research community.
We are looking for highly motivated students with suitable undergraduate/master-degree training in relevant subjects, including physics, engineering and materials science. Students who are interested in this project are encouraged to contact to Dr Barton (NPL) and Dr Kurebayashi (UCL) for further details.
More details are available from the links below.
Eligibility:
Eligible candidates have (or are expected to have) a master-degree (MSci, MEng, MRes etc) in physics, engineering and materials science. Due to the nature of our funding body, we can only offer this studentship to UK-Home students (UK nationals or students who are considered as a Home student).
How to apply:
Those who are motivated, eligible and interested in applying for this studentship should send their CV and a one-page summary of "why you would like to pursue a PhD and this project?"
to [Email Address Removed] and [Email Address Removed] by 1st June 2023. We will shortlist the candidates for interview in due course.
Useful links:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/spintronics/
https://www.npl.co.uk/quantum-detection/low-loss-electronics
Contacts:
Craig Barton ([Email Address Removed])
Hidekazu Kurebayashi ([Email Address Removed])
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