Post-doc (M/F): Radio-frequency hardware neural networks based on magnetic tunnel junctions

Job Description

Missions

The goal of the project is to experimentally build and optimize hardware neural networks made of approximately one hundred magnetic tunnel junctions, with radio-frequency inputs, in order to classify RF signals directly in the physical domain.
Chains of magnetic tunnel junctions are already available in the laboratory. The work will therefore mainly focus on their experimental characterization, the optimization of RF interfaces, and the development of the full protocol required to send inputs, read the network responses, and achieve the best possible experimental performance.
The project targets native RF signal classification for applications such as the detection of hidden objects or structures, for instance in medical imaging and ground inspection. The postdoctoral researcher will work in close collaboration with researchers in charge of the machine learning aspects, in order to connect the physical architecture, measurement protocols and classification performance.

Activity

• Electrical and radio-frequency characterization of chains of magnetic tunnel junctions
• Experimental optimization of a hardware network composed of approximately one hundred magnetic tunnel junctions
• Optimization of RF interfaces between sources, spintronic devices and measurement instruments
• Definition and optimization of the experimental network architecture
• Development of RF input protocols, in particular using arbitrary waveform generators
• Development of methods to read out the network responses
• Optimization of the experimental classification performance
• Development and automation of the measurement setup, including Python and/or LabVIEW interfaces
• Analysis of experimental data and comparison with predictions from machine learning models
• Close collaboration with researchers in charge of machine learning, algorithmic architecture and performance analysis
• Contribution to the scientific output of the project: publications, conferences and experimental demonstrators

Your Profil

Skills

We are looking for an experimental researcher in spintronics, nanomagnetism, radio-frequency electronics or device physics, who enjoys measurements, experimental optimization and the engineering of complex circuits.
The position is particularly suited for a candidate motivated by the development of an ambitious experimental demonstrator, able to optimize a full system from physical devices to input/output signals and classification performance.
• Expertise in spintronics, nanomagnetism, RF electronics or experimental device physics
• Expertise in magneto-transport and/or radio-frequency measurements
• Strong interest in experimental optimization, measurement setup development and detailed performance analysis
• Ability to develop, automate and maintain a complex measurement setup
• Expertise in Python
• Experience with RF instrumentation, AWGs, spectrum analyzers, fast oscilloscopes or similar instruments will be appreciated
• Interest in hardware neural networks, neuromorphic computing or physical machine learning
• Ability to work in interaction with machine learning specialists
• Autonomy, experimental rigor and motivation for teamwork

Your Work Environment

The work will be carried out at the Albert Fert Laboratory, in the "Neuromorphic Physics" team exploring the use of nanodevices and their multiple functionalities for bio-inspired computing. The team includes two permanent CNRS researchers, two Thales researchers, 4 post-docs, and 4 PhD students.

Constraints and risks

NA

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Between 3131,32 and 4341,70 € gross per month according to research experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions