PhD Scholarship in Physics: A Computer Chip that thinks like the Brain

Memristors are nanoscale electrical switches the hold much promise for neuromorphic computing i.e. for building computer chips that operate in similar ways to the neurons and synapses in the brain.

A 3-year PhD Scholarship is available to work on electrical switching (memory) behaviour in films of nanoparticles (or “clusters”) i.e. complex networks of memristor. The main research goals are to understand the atomistic processes responsible for the novel switching behaviour and to exploit it in order to implement on-chip computational processes such as pattern recognition.

This work builds on fifteen years of experience in building cluster based electronic devices and is part of a project that has recently been funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment. The project also aligns closely with the objectives of the MacDiarmid Institute, a national Centre of Research Excellence, and the successful applicant will enjoy access to the facilities and programs of the Institute. The scholarship is worth $27,000 per annum and includes all student fees.

The successful candidate will have enthusiasm, a good honours or masters degree in physics (or related subject), and a desire to work in a multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary, collaborative environment.

Please note that all applications must include:
- A full Curriculum Vitae, INCLUDING your University transcript (i.e. list of grades awarded).
- The names of at least two people who are prepared to act as referees.
- Evidence of your English language ability.
- A clear statement about when you would expect to be able to come to NZ.

Only applications received before the deadline of 15 January 2017 will be considered.

All applications should be emailed to [Email Address Removed].

For further information go to: http://www.phys.canterbury.ac.nz/research/nano/