From lab to life - atomic-scale memristors pave the way for brain-like AI and next-gen computing power

Engineer, Scientists and Developers Gathered Around Illuminated Conference Table in Technology Research Center, Talking, Finding Solution and Analysing Industrial Engine Design. Close-up Hands Shot
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Gorodenkoff)

  • Memristors to bring brain-like computing to AI systems
  • Atomically tunable devices offer energy-efficient AI processing
  • Neuromorphic circuits open new possibilities for artificial intelligence

A new frontier in semiconductor technology could be closer than ever after the development of atomically tunable "memristors” which are cutting-edge memory resistors that emulate the human brain's neural network.

With funding from the National Science Foundation’s Future of Semiconductors program (FuSe2), this initiative aims to create devices that enable neuromorphic computing - a next-generation approach designed for high-speed, energy-efficient processing that mimics the brain’s ability to learn and adapt.

At the core of this innovation is the creation of ultrathin memory devices with atomic-scale control, potentially revolutionizing AI by allowing memristors to act as artificial synapses and neurons. These devices have the potential to significantly enhance computing power and efficiency, opening new possibilities for artificial intelligence applications, all while training a new generation of experts in semiconductor technology.

Neuromorphic computing challenges

The project focuses on solving one of the most fundamental challenges in modern computing: achieving the precision and scalability needed to bring brain-inspired AI systems to life.

To develop energy-efficient, high-speed networks that function like the human brain, memristors are the key components. They can store and process information simultaneously, making them particularly suited to neuromorphic circuits where they can facilitate the type of parallel data processing seen in biological brains, potentially overcoming limitations in traditional computing architectures.

The joint research effort between the University of Kansas (KU) and the University of Houston led by Judy Wu, a distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy at KU is supported by a $1.8 million grant from FuSe2.

Wu and her team have pioneered a method for achieving sub-2-nanometer thickness in memory devices, with film layers approaching an astonishing 0.1 nanometers — approximately 10 times thinner than the average nanometer scale.

These advancements are crucial for future semiconductor electronics, as they allow for the creation of devices that are both extremely thin and capable of precise functionality, with large-area uniformity. The research team will also use a co-design approach that integrates material design, fabrication, and testing.

In addition to its scientific aims, the project also has a strong focus on workforce development. Recognizing the growing need for skilled professionals in the semiconductor industry, the team has designed an educational outreach component led by experts from both universities.

“The overarching goal of our work is to develop atomically ‘tunable’ memristors that can act as neurons and synapses on a neuromorphic circuit. By developing this circuit, we aim to enable neuromorphic computing. This is the primary focus of our research," said Wu.

"We want to mimic how our brain thinks, computes, makes decisions and recognizes patterns — essentially, everything the brain does with high speed and high energy efficiency."

You might also like

Efosa Udinmwen
Freelance Journalist

Efosa has been writing about technology for over 7 years, initially driven by curiosity but now fueled by a strong passion for the field. He holds both a Master's and a PhD in sciences, which provided him with a solid foundation in analytical thinking. Efosa developed a keen interest in technology policy, specifically exploring the intersection of privacy, security, and politics. His research delves into how technological advancements influence regulatory frameworks and societal norms, particularly concerning data protection and cybersecurity. Upon joining TechRadar Pro, in addition to privacy and technology policy, he is also focused on B2B security products. Efosa can be contacted at this email: udinmwenefosa@gmail.com

Read more
Exocortex
'An extension of a scientist's brain': Researchers explore AI to augment inspiration and imagination to revolutionize science
Tesla Autopark
Tesla emerges as surprising rival to AMD and Nvidia in quest to grab next-gen HBM4 memory for AI and supercomputers
Half man, half AI.
Yet another tech startup wants to topple Nvidia with 'orders of magnitude' better energy efficiency; Sagence AI bets on analog in-memory compute to deliver 666K tokens/s on Llama2-70B
Artificial Intelligence
Here's why 100TB+ SSDs will play a huge role in ultra large language models in the near future
A person holding out their hand with a digital AI symbol.
Taking AI to the edge for smaller, smarter, and more secure applications
CPU with the contacts facing up lying on the motherboard of the PC. the chip is highlighted with blue light
This universal processor combines CPU, GPU, DSP and FPGA in one chip
Latest in Pro
Microsoft
"Another pair of eyes" - Microsoft launches all-new Security Copilot Agents to give security teams the upper hand
Lock on Laptop Screen
Medusa ransomware is able to disable anti-malware tools, so be on your guard
AI quantization
What is AI quantization?
US flags
US government IT contracts set to be centralized in new Trump order
An abstract image of digital security.
Fake file converters are stealing info, pushing ransomware, FBI warns
Google Gemini AI
Gmail is adding a new Gemini AI tool to help smarten up your work emails
Latest in News
Microsoft
"Another pair of eyes" - Microsoft launches all-new Security Copilot Agents to give security teams the upper hand
Cassian Andor looking nervously over his shoulder in Andor season 2
New Andor season 2 trailer has got Star Wars fans asking the same question – and it includes an ominous call back to Rogue One's official teaser
Ncuti Gatwa as The Fifteenth Doctor in Doctor Who
Disney+ drops new trailer for Doctor Who season 2 that promises an epic adventure across time and space
23andMe
23andMe is bankrupt and about to sell your DNA, here's how to stop that from happening
A phone showing a ChatGPT app error message
ChatGPT was down for many – here's what happened
AirPods Max with USB-C in every color
Apple's AirPods Max with USB-C will get lossless audio in April, but you'll need to go wired