Nanostructured neural architectures for sustainable neuromorphic computing

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Professor Dimitra Georgiadou

Artificial intelligence is transforming society but comes with a growing energy and carbon cost. This project will explore new nanostructured materials and device architectures that can deliver brain-inspired computing with radically improved energy efficiency.

You will design and fabricate nanoscale neural elements using emerging semiconductors, such as 2D materials, ferroelectric polymers, and hybrid organic–inorganic systems, exploring their potential for in-memory sensing, learning, and computation. By integrating these materials into scalable device arrays, the project aims to create neuromorphic systems capable of energy-efficient information processing.

Working within the SustAI CDT’s multidisciplinary environment, you will collaborate with researchers across electronics, photonics, and machine learning to advance the next generation of green intelligence technologies—bridging materials innovation and sustainable AI architectures. You will join the multi-disciplinary Flexible Nanoelectronics Lab, work at the world-class labs of theOptoelectronics Research Centre, while you will have the opportunity to build connections with UK and European research partners by being affiliated also with the UK Multidisciplinary Centre for Neuromorphic Computing.

Additionally, you will be encouraged to attend major conferences, sharing your work and networking with leading experts. The outcomes of your research can have various applications, such as Internet of Things and edge computing, AI, artificial vision, high density data storage for wearable devices, and many others. This project is a chance to contribute to emerging technologies with the potential to revolutionise data processing and computing, while gaining skills, recognition, and experience that will position you as a leader in the field of nanoelectronics and memory technology.

The project is part of the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Sustainability (SustAI), a 4-year integrated programme (iPhD). You will be part of a dynamic and diverse cohort, benefiting from expert mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration. The programme includes comprehensive training in sustainability, AI and machine learning, and digital design, preparing you for a career at the forefront of research in this area. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence.

Entry requirements

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

• engineering
• electronics
• physical sciences

or another relevant subject.

You should have an interest in multidisciplinary research, and an aptitude for data analytics as well as other skills relevant to one or more of the core themes within the AI for Sustainability CDT.

Academic attainment is only one of our criteria for selection; we equally value the ability to work in teams, excitement for research, enthusiasm for the research focus of the CDT and the ability to communicate ideas. EU and Overseas applicants should achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each competency.

Fees and funding

Funding is provided through the UKRI AI CDT on Sustainable AI (SustAI). For more information and recruitment rounds deadlines, please visit the UKRI AI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Sustainability.

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

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 iPhD SUST AI
• 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)