PhD Studentship: Advancing Quantum Insights in Memristor-Based Devices

PhD Supervisor: Dr Ruomeng Huang

Supervisory Team: Dr Ruomeng Huang, Prof Liudi Jiang

Project description The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

This PhD project aims to delve into the uncharted territories of quantum effects in memristive devices, with a specific focus on Silicon Carbide (SiC)-based memristors. The overarching goal is to harness quantum phenomena for advancing new information processing technologies. Recent studies have highlighted that memristive elements, known for their resistive switching capabilities through the electrochemical formation and rupture of conductive nanofilaments, also demonstrate quantum conductance effects at room temperature. This project will build upon this foundational knowledge to explore the potential of SiC-based memristors in quantum computing applications.

The research will encompass a thorough investigation of the fundamental electrochemical and physicochemical phenomena that underlie the functionalities of these devices. Special attention will be given to the electronic conduction in nanofilaments and its implications for quantum conductance. A significant part of the research will be devoted to developing methodologies for creating and controlling atomic-sized conductive filaments in SiC-based memristors.

Through this project, the PhD candidate will contribute to the field by addressing the current gap in understanding the quantum effects in memristive devices. The research outcomes are expected to pave the way for potential applications in next-generation memories, neuromorphic computing architectures, and integrated quantum systems, revolutionizing the landscape of information processing technologies. The student will have the opportunity to join a dynamic research team and have access to advanced nanofabrication as well as electronic characterization facilities in the state-of-art Southampton Nanofabrication Centre. The student will benefit from academic research expertise from a dynamic supervisory team from both ECS and Engineering.

If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Ruomeng Huang r.huang@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2024.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD iMR”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

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