Fully Funded EPSRC DTP PhD Scholarship: Towards Organic Quantum Memristors

Funding providers: EPSRC Quantum Technologies DTP

Subject areas: Chemistry and Physics

Project description:  

This fully funded project will explore the application of organic semiconductors in quantum computing. Building on research into organic memristors for neuromorphic computing, we are looking to exploit quantum phenomena in these devices and to ultimately realise an organic quantum memristor (QM).   

Memristors themselves are promising devices for realising multi-state memory, physical neural networks and neuromorphic computing [1]. Recently, we have developed high quality organic memristors that emulate the synaptic behaviour of the brain using squaraine molecules, first using self-assembled nanowires before moving to thin-film devices that are can be integrated with current semiconductor processes [2]. 

A QM is a device that couples classical memristive behaviour with quantum coherence [3]. Several approaches to realise QMs have been envisaged and more recently a quantum optical memristor has been demonstrated experimentally [4-7]. Quantum coherent states can be realised in certain organic semiconductors through the coupling of photons and excitons to form an exciton polariton [8,9].  

In this project, the application of organic exciton polaritons in memristors will be explored to first understand how they can be exploited in optoelectronic memristors before using them to devise a true organic quantum memristor. 

The role will test a number of novel organic semiconductors and involve thin-film processing and characterisation, device fabrication, advanced spectroscopy, and optical modelling. It will be highly collaborative, working with researchers across the university as well as the UK and abroad. Several training opportunities will be available during the project. For e.g., industry-standard training opportunities in cleanroom practices, device fabrication and characterisation will be run to enhance research skills and improve future employment opportunities. Within the CISM community, informal seminars and training in advanced optics and spectroscopy, thin-film deposition and coding are regularly offered. Furthermore, project costs towards dissemination of research results and enhanced training in quantum technologies are included in this studentship. 

References

1. Yang, J.J., Nat. Nanotechnol., 8, 13−24,  https://doi.org/10.1038/nnano.2012.240
2. O’Kelly, C.J., ACS Appl. Electron. Mater., 2, 3088,  https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaelm.0c00652
3. Pfeiffer, P., Sci. Rep., 6:29507, https://doi.org/10.1038/srep29507
4. Milano, G., Adv. Mater., 34, 2201248, https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202201248
5. Norambuena, A, Phys. Rev. Appl., 17, 024056, https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.17.024056
6. Guo, Y.-M., Phys. Rev. Appl., 18, 024082,  https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.18.024082
7. Spagnolo, M., Nat. Photon., 16, 318, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41566-022-00973-5
8. Ballarini, D., Adv. Optical Mater., 2, 1076,  https://doi.org/10.1002/adom.201400226
9. Xiang, B., Chem. Rev., 124, 2512, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00662

Eligibility 

Ideally candidates will hold an MSc or equivalent in chemistry, physics or related subject. Candidates with a strong BSc degree will also be considered. If you are eligible to apply for the scholarship but do not hold a UK degree, you can check our comparison entry requirements. Please note that you may need to provide evidence of your English Language proficiency.

English Language: IELTS 6.0 Overall (with no individual component below 5.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent.

This scholarship is open to candidates of any nationality.

Please visit our website for more information on eligibility.

Additional Funding Information

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend of £19,237.

Additional research expenses will also be available.

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