Functional Reliability and Interface Dynamics in Emerging Transistor Devices

This project will focus on synaptic transistors or resistive random-access memory (RRAM), covering the fabrication, characterisation and optimisation of individual devices and arrays. It will investigate how materials, interfaces, device structures and pulse programming schemes determine synaptic plasticity, weight-update linearity and symmetry, retention, endurance, energy consumption and device uniformity. Particular attention will be given to how interface and defect dynamics affect the functional reliability of neuromorphic devices. Moving beyond basic proof-of-concept demonstrations, the project will address whether these devices can operate in a stable, controllable and scalable manner.

Using experimental data obtained from devices and arrays, the project will further evaluate how device characteristics influence the accuracy, robustness and energy efficiency of neuromorphic computing. The aim is to establish practical links between device physics and AI performance, providing design and optimisation strategies for reliable neuromorphic hardware. The PhD student will primarily conduct experimental research on devices and arrays, with opportunities to participate in testing system development and computing validation.

For more information about doctoral scholarship and PhD programme at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University (XJTLU), please visit:

• https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/doctoral/entry-requirement-phd
• https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/admissions/doctoral/postgraduate-research-scholarships

Supervisors:

• Principal supervisor: Dr. Yuxiao Fang (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor Chun Zhao (XJTLU)
• Co-supervisor: Professor Ivona Mitrovic (UoL)

Requirements:

A Master's degree with Merit and a Bachelor's degree with first-class or upper second-class honors are required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates holding only a Bachelor's degree may be considered on an individual basis in certain disciplines.

Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English. This position is open to all qualified candidates irrespective of nationality.

Degree:

The student will be awarded a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool (UK) upon successful completion of the program.

Funding:

The PhD studentship is available for three years subject to satisfactory progress by the student. The award covers tuition fees for three years (currently equivalent to RMB 99,000 per annum). It also provides up to RMB 16,500 to allow participation at international conferences during the period of the award. The scholarship holders are expected to conduct the majority of their research at XJTLU in Suzhou, China. However, they may apply for a short-term research visit to the University of Liverpool if the project requires it.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are advised to email Yuxiao.Fang02@xjtlu.edu.cn the following documents for initial review and assessment (please put the project title in the subject line):

• CV
• Two formal reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
• Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
• Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available

Contact:

Please email Yuxiao.Fang02@xjtlu.edu.cn with a subject line of the PhD project title.

The principal supervisor’s profile is linked here: https://scholar.xjtlu.edu.cn/en/persons/YuxiaoFang02/