PhD Studentship in Hardware Accelerators for Neuromorphic Sensing
Agents, Interactions & Complexity

Location: Highfield Campus
Closing Date: Friday 05 June 2020
Reference: 1263420FP
Supervisor: Alexander Serb, Koushik Maharatna and Themis Prodromakis

Project description

The aim of this PhD studentship is to develop ultra-low power sensing processing modules that handle spiking inputs sourced by neuromorphic sensors (e.g. silicon retinas, e-nose, etc). Opportunities exist for working collaboratively with world-leading experts in neuromorphic sensors. The project covers a wide spectrum of experimental research, including mixed-signal IC and/or embedded design, signal processing and neuromorphic systems. Such sensing processing units can be used for enabling novel applications through the design of AI hardware, and embedded/reconfigurable systems for IoT applications. The PhD student will have the opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary team and to be trained and work in the world-class facilities of the Zepler Institute for Photonics and Nanoelectronics.

Supervision:

• Dr Alexander Serb – expert in Nanoelectronics.
• Prof Koushik Maharatna – expert in Signal Processing.
• Prof Themis Prodromakis – expert in AI Hardware.

This project is funded through the UKRI MINDS Centre for Doctoral Training (www.mindscdt.ai). This is one of 16 PhD training centres in the UK with a unique focus on advancing AI techniques in the context of real-world engineered systems with a remit that spans novel hardware for AI, AI and machine learning, pervasive systems and IoT, and human-AI collaboration. We provide enhanced cross-disciplinary training in electronics and AI, entrepreneurship, responsible research and innovation, communication strategies, outreach and impact development as part of an integrated 4-year iPhD programme.

The MINDS CDT is based in a dedicated laboratory on Highfield Campus at the University of Southampton. The lab provides a supportive environment for individual research, ideas sharing and collaboration, and the wider campus provides access to substantial high-performance computing (including dedicated GPU servers), maker and cleanroom facilities. You will take part in our annual, student-designed innovation camps, be able to work with industry and government partners through our internship scheme and be able to take part in exchanges with international university partners.

Funding: full tuition for EU/UK Students plus, for UK and EU students resident in the UK for previous 3 years, an enhanced stipend of £18,285, tax-free per annum for 4 years. years.

Entry Requirements

• A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
• Closing date: no later than 5 June 2020 for entry in October 2020.

How To Apply

Applications should be made online, select the academic session 2020-21 “PhD MINDS” as the programme. Enter Secure Hardware accelerators for neuromorphic sensing under the Topic or Field of Research.

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: For further information please contact: mindscdt@soton.ac.uk

Please click here to apply.