The University seeks to appoint a research associate in the Department of Computer Science to work on an interdisciplinary project between the Nano Engineering and Spintronic Technologies (NEST), the Advanced Processor Technologies (APT) groups in Manchester and Imperial College. The candidate will conduct computational research related to emerging magnetic nanotechnologies in order to enable computing hardware for brain-inspired computing. In particular, the candidate will work towards the development of skyrmionics-based neuromorphic components, such as nanosynaptic devices, considering realistic operating conditions. The post will be hosted by the Nano Engineering and Spintronic Technologies (NEST) group. The NEST group is a vibrant community of interdisciplinary researchers working on a variety of topics including spintronics, magnetic data storage, nano-technology applications, numerical modelling and simulation. The groups are active members of the National Graphene Institute (NGI), the Royce institute for advanced materials. More information can be found at:
http://nest.cs.manchester.ac.uk/
The University of Manchester values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
The principal aim of the project is to build next-generation artificial synapses by exploring the potential of non-volatile artificial synapses, based on nanoscale magnets, for energy-efficient brain-inspired operations (neuromorphic computing). There is a recognised need for ultra-low power and always-on sensory data processing and neuromorphic hardware is one of the most promising routes for AI applications. The project goal is to demonstrate that nanoscale skyrmionics synapses (that use nanoscale whirling vortex-like magnetic states called skyrmions as information carriers) are a viable candidate for energy-efficient smart edge-computing devices.
The specific tasks will involve the development of models of fundamental components for skyrmion-based neuromorphic electronics, defining device operational windows and interfacing with experimental work to guide fabrication. A further set of tasks will involve advanced spiking neural network simulations and developing related compact models that describe the interface with CMOS circuits and perform circuit simulations.
You will be part of the NEST research group and will be expected to work closely with the PIs of the project. As the project has both an experimental and simulation activity, the PDRA will be a key part of the team and it will be essential for the success of the project that the post holder works directly with the other PDRA and PhD students on interfacing the computational work and simulations that will inform the device design process with the experimental part. The candidate will be expected to communicate the results of the research to a wider cross-disciplinary academic and industrial community through high quality publications and at international conferences and workshops.
The School/Department is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN charter for gender equality in higher education. The School/Department holds a Bronze Award for their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a god work-life balance. We positively welcome applications from women for this post. All appointments will always be made on merit. For further information, please visit
http://www.manchester.ac.uk/connect/jobs/equality-diversity/awards/athena-swan/
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here
Blended working arrangements may be considered
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Christoforos Moutafis
Email: christoforos.moutafis@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: hrservices@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
