Ferroelectric diodes with 2D semiconductors for future AI hardware

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Soumya Sarkar, Kees de Groot and Dimitra Georgiadou

Artificial intelligence demands faster, more efficient hardware. This PhD project addresses the energy and latency bottlenecks of modern computing hardware by bringing memory and computation together. Join us in developing neuromorphic devices using foundry-compatible ferroelectric diodes with two-dimensional materials for future computing hardware.

Ferroelectric diodes (FeDs) are two-terminal, non-volatile memory devices that exhibit rectifying current–voltage hysteresis, enabling intrinsic self-selection. This makes FeDs attractive for dense crossbar arrays in neuromorphic computing architectures that address the energy, latency, and data-movement bottlenecks of current AI hardware.

However, key challenges, including limited cyclability, high operating voltages, insufficient read currents, and device variability, currently restrict their scalability and commercial viability. Building on our recent breakthroughs in developing ultra-clean metal contacts to two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors (Nature Electronics, 2025) and ferroelectrics (Nano Letters, 2024), this PhD project aims to develop reliable, multi-bit ferroelectric diode arrays using foundry-compatible processes.

The central objective is to control ferroelectric domain structure, switching dynamics, and interfacial electrostatics to realise stable, analog-like conductance states suitable for neuromorphic learning and inference. By systematically addressing endurance, variability, and operating voltage, the project will establish scalable design principles aligned with emerging AI hardware requirements.

As part of the Materials for Intelligent Nanoelectronic Devices (MINDs) lab, the student will receive comprehensive training in nanofabrication and materials characterisation at the Southampton Nanofabrication Centre, one of the most advanced university cleanrooms in Europe.

Device development will be complemented by advanced electronic and optoelectronic characterisation within the Sustainable Electronic Technologies (SET) group and the ECSCentre for Neuromorphic Technologies.

The project involves collaboration with the University of Cambridge and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), providing access to world-class metrology and device benchmarking expertise.

This interdisciplinary environment will prepare the student for careers in academic research and the growing AI hardware industry.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following or a related discipline:

• electronics
• materials science
• physics

Essential:

• exposure to hands-on projects, nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation
• experience of coding or simulations (e.g. using MATLAB, COMSOL, Python etc.)
• knowledge of 2D materials, semiconductors, ferroelectrics

Fees and funding

We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.

Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants.

Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants.

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• research proposal
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

Contact us

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

If you have a general question, feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk.

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr Soumya Sarkar (ss3c24@soton.ac.uk).