392169 Memristor/CMOS integration for neuromorphic systems (Pj) (SoSe 2017)

Memristor/CMOS integration for neuromorphic systems
In Neuromorphic Engineering very-large-scale integration (VLSI) systems containing analog circuits are used to create biological inspired structures such as those found in the nervous system. In VLSI systems it is easier to mimic the functionality of neurons than the role of the synapses. This might change in the future utilizing memristors. A Memristor is a passive electrical component where the resistance depends on the previously encountered current through the device. These memristive elements may be a perfect fit for replacing synaptic circuits in artificial neuronal networks. In this project, new material combinations for memristive systems (such as Barium Titanate) are tested. This project is a joint venture of the 'Neuromorphic Behaving Systems Group' (AG Chicca) where the VLSI chips are designed and produced and the 'Thin Film and Physics of Nanostructures' group (AG Thomas) where the memristors are prepared. The student will familiarize her/himself with the procedures used to create and verify Memristors and finally integrate the memristive structures in a neuromorphic CMOS chip.