Skyrmionics for Neuromorphic Technologies
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Manchester
Department Name: Computer Science
Abstract
In today's world of pervasive Information Technology (IT), there is a pressing need to develop novel computing paradigms to move beyond current architectures with the goal of achieving intelligent computing with superior efficiency. Modern, conventional, computers operate in a very different manner to that of the human brain. In stark contrast, the main building blocks of the human brain are neurons (the computing elements) and synapses (the adaptive memory elements) and neurons are massively interconnected with synapses. Since learning is intricately connected to synaptic behavior, this project seeks to build next-generation artificial synapses In particular, we will explore the potential of non-volatile artificial synapses, based on nanoscale magnets, for energy-efficient brain-inspired operations, also known as neuromorphic computing. In a market with products requiring an abundance of sensors at the edge (e.g. mobiles or wearables like smart watches), there is a recognised need for ultra-low power and always-on sensory data processing. Neuromorphic hardware is one of the most promising routes for Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. We propose to demonstrate that nanoscale skyrmionics synapses (that use nanoscale whirling vortex-like magnetic states called skyrmions as information carriers) are ideal for energy-efficient smart edge-computing devices.
Publications
Chen R
(2022)
Voltage-Controlled Skyrmionic Interconnect with Multiple Magnetic Information Carriers.
in ACS applied materials & interfaces
Chen R
(2023)
Encoding and Multiplexing Information Signals in Magnetic Multilayers with Fractional Skyrmion Tubes
in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
Chen R
(2023)
Correction to "Voltage-Controlled Skyrmionic Interconnect with Multiple Magnetic Information Carriers".
in ACS applied materials & interfaces
Li Y
(2024)
Tailoring energy barriers of Bloch-point-mediated transitions between topological spin textures
in Physical Review B
Li Y
(2021)
Magnetic Bloch-point hopping in multilayer skyrmions and associated emergent electromagnetic signatures
in Physical Review B
Description | CNRS - Thales |
Organisation | Unité Mixte de Physique CNRS/Thales |
Country | France |
Sector | Public |
PI Contribution | We started a new collaboration with CNRS and Thales, that was inspired by our work on neuromorphic skyrmionic synapses and skyrmionic interconnects in the "Skyrmionics for Neuromorphic Technologies" project. We will work with CNRS/Thales on magnetic multilayers that support skyrmion transport and skyrmion detection, all crucial parts of a new skyrmionic synapse design. |
Collaborator Contribution | CNRS will provide magnetic multilayers that are optimised for Skyrmion transport to complement our Manchester grown magnetic multilayers. Thales will provide know-how on skyrmion detection in order for our skyrmionic synapses to be implemented in a fully electrical way, not only relying on imaging. |
Impact | As this a new collaboration we expect outputs and outcomes over the next 1 year. |
Start Year | 2023 |