Spintronics-based neuromorphic computation

RESEARCH PROGRAMME

P4: Nanomagnetism for Information and Communication Technologies

PhD PROJECT DESCRIPTION

Technologies and devices based on artificial neuronal networks are the aim of the emerging field of Neuromorphic Computing. In one hand artificial synapses and neurons are the building blocks for computation based in human brain. On the other hand, reservoir computing is a computation derived from the theory of recurrent neural networks. The combination of spintronic (such as Pt|Co based multilayers) and metal-to-insulator transition materials (such as VOx) opens up a very interesting platform for the development of this technology. In a single multilayer it is possible to reproduce the spiking behavior of neurons (e.g., by triggering the vanadium oxide) and the synapses (e.g., by exploiting the magnetoresistance and coupling of the magnetic layers).

The aim of the proposed research is to design, fabricate and characterize both spin based synapses and neurons for Neuromorphic and Reservoir Computing.

The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment provided by IMDEA Nanociencia and will have the opportunity to work in strong synergy with several national and EU collaborators of the hosting group.

The hired PhD candidate will be enrolled in one of the doctoral programs at the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) or Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), she/he will have the opportunity to attend to international summer schools (as the ones organized by UAM, UCM, CEMAG, EMA, IEEE, Spintronic Factory, ….), to participate regularly to group’s and project’s meetings and to attend and present her/his own results in international conferences. Short or mid-term secondments at the EU partner’s institutions (such as Laboratoire Fert in Paris, University California San Diego in USA) will be also set as function of the research/training needs.

APPLICANT’S REQUIREMENTS

The position is open to candidates with a background in Physics or Materials Science. Open minded applicants, with a passion for condensed matter physics and physical phenomena at the nanoscale, and a curiosity for advanced instrumentation and entrepreneurship in technology sectors are highly welcome. Although not mandatory, previous experience in UHV techniques, nanofabrication, magneto-transport measurements and programming will be ideal.

RESEARCH GROUP DESCRIPTION

The group led by Dr. Fernando Ajejas is focused on novel spintronics phenomena such as neuromorphic computing, antiferromagnetic spintronics, altermagnetism, goniopolarity or the emerging orbitronic field. The labs include a powerful battery of experimental techniques for the growth, in-situ surface, and the magneto-transport investigation in ultra-high-vacuum and ambient environments, at variable temperature, and under magnetic and electric fields. Micromagnetic simulation capabilities are also at hand, along with expertise in synchrotron-based techniques, and full-time access to the Nanofabrication Facility at IMDEA.

RESEARCH SUPERVISOR

Dr. Fernando Ajejas
fernando.ajejas@imdea.org

Research Group website: New emerging Spintronics