Memristive Reservoirs and Artificial Neurons for Neuromorphic Computing

This project focuses on artificial neurons for next-generation neuromorphic computing. The aim is to create hardware that can learn from time-varying signals efficiently, using device physics — including diffusion and stochasticity — as part of the computation. AI is rapidly moving from the cloud to the edge (e.g. sensors, wearables, robotics, and autonomous systems), where power efficiency, low latency, and robustness are critical. Memristive and physical reservoir approaches offer a route to ultra-low-power, fast, and adaptive computation, potentially enabling new capabilities in real-time signal processing, classification, prediction, and secure on-device intelligence. Projects can be tailored to your background (physics, electronic engineering, materials science, or computer science). Possible directions include: Memristive reservoir computing for time-series tasks (prediction, classification, and event-based sensing). Artificial neurons (“transneurons”) and spiking dynamics for richer, brain-inspired computation. Stochastic memristive devices for probabilistic computing and true random number generation. Noise, instability, and variability: modelling, mitigation strategies, and robust learning rules. Benchmarking and hardware–algorithm co-design (device models → circuits → system-level performance). You will join a supportive research environment at Loughborough University, working with Prof. Sergey Savel’ev, building on a strong track record in memristive neuromorphic hardware, including publications in Nature Materials, Nature Electronics, and Nature Communications. Selected publications include: 10.1038/nmat4756 10.1038/s41928-018-0023-2 10.1038/s41467-017-00869-x 10.1038/ncomms11142 10.1038/s41467-025-62151-9 10.1038/s41467-023-43891-y 10.1126/sciadv.abl58 94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

The standard University IELTS English language requirement is 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

International students: £29,500

UK students: £5,238

UK/Home: £5,238

International: £29,500

February 2027, July 2027

31 December 2026

• Loughborough, United Kingdom