Scaling a Mixed-Feedback Approach to Controlling Neuromorphic Circuits

The research group has used mixed-feedback control theory to develop a neuromorphic circuit mimicking the behaviour of a single neuron. The novelty of this circuit is that its design and analysis can be done purely by shaping the current-voltage (I-V) curves. This input-output approach is simpler than tuning a state-space model, and allows robust and accurate control of non-linear behaviour.

The focus of the PhD will be to design and characterise neuromorphic circuits comprising multiple such neuron elements connected together. These circuits potentially have engineering applications, including electronic sensing. They can also be used to model and investigate biological phenomena, such as the spontaneous emergence of rhythmic neural activity.