PhD Position in Neuroscience

This project, at the Peter Grünberg Institute – Neuromorphic Compute Nodes (PGI-14), explores the capabilities of neural networks (NN) composed of complex neuron models, such as Hodgkin-Huxley or Izhikevich. Such complex neurons can be efficiently engineered in analog circuits including memristive devices and locally active elements. Locally active elements can be realized utilizing volatile memristors (e.g., negative differential resistance). Hardware realizations (e.g., based on VO2 devices) are able to reproduce known biological neuronal dynamics (spike patterns) depending on internal parameter settings. Increasing the internal complexity of the neurons is expected to allow for increasing computational capabilities beyond leaky-integrate-and-fire (LIF) neurons. These computational capabilities and methods for training or learning in networks will be the subject of this PhD research. More information about us: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/pgi/pgi-14

Institute issuing the offer: PGI-14

Your Job:

The project will include the following tasks:

• Simulation studies on networks of complex neuron models with neuroscience-inspired topologies to analyze neuron and network dynamics
• Investigation of learning rules for training networks specifically considering the strong nonlinear dynamics of the neurons
• Integrated circuit design for the hardware realization of such a network
• Computational and performance analysis considering accuracy, energy and area efficiency based on the pre-silicon implementation models and hardware measurements.

The project may also be carried out in two parallel and complementary doctoral theses, one concentrating on the simulation studies with a strong link to complex dynamical system theory and the other concentrating on the electronic implementations in integrated circuits.

Your Profile:

Depending on the sub-topics of focus, you should cover many of the skills listed below. Additionally, a passion for teamwork is an important requirement:

• Masters degree in electrical/electronic engineering, computer science, computer engineering, physics, materials science, or related fields
• For IC development, a strong electronics background, with experience in design and simulation of analog, digital, or mixed-signal circuits, including Cadence, SPICS, and related tools is strongly desired
• For modeling and simulation, a strong background in non-linear dynamics, advanced mathematics and coding is strongly desired
• Knowledge in the field of bio-inspired computing approaches and neuroscience basics is advantageous
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team are essential
• Strong English skills will be required for the international working environment

Our Offer:

We work on cutting-edge research topics with a high potential to positively impact society. We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• A world-leading, international research environment with state-of-the-art equipment
• Opportunity to work in the highly interdisciplinary and exciting field of neuromorphic and brain-inspired computing, collaborating with physicists, neuroscientists, materials scientists, and engineers
• Flexible work (location) arrangements, e.g. remote work in coordination with the supervisor
• 30 days of annual leave as well as an arrangement for bridging days (e.g. between Christmas and New Year’s Day)
• Opportunity to develop your strengths, e.g. through a comprehensive training programme; a structured programme including continuing professional development and networking opportunities specifically designed for Jülich’s doctoral researchers by the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors (JuDocS): https://go.fzj.de/JuDocs
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service

More information about us and our goals you find here: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/pgi/pgi-14

In addition to exciting tasks and the collaborative working atmosphere at Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/julich-as-an-employer/benefits

Place of employment: Aachen

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years, where the first half year serves as orientation and probation period. The salary is in line with pay group 13 (75 %) of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund). In addition, an annual special payment is granted (“Christmas payment”), which amounts to 60 % of the monthly salary. Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich (including its various branch offices) is available at https://www.fz-juelich.de/en/careers/phd . All information about the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) can be found on the BMI website: https://go.fzj.de/bmi.tvoed The monthly salaries in euros can be found on page 66 of the PDF download.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The job will be advertised until the position has been successfully filled. You should therefore submit your application as soon as possible. We look forward to receiving your application via our
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Pdf

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com