Missions

The rapid growth of energy consumption by information and communication technology which could lead 20% of global energy production to be consumed by the adoption of artificial intelligence. Therefore, “unconventional” computing architecture beyond the CMOS-based scheme and suitable energy-efficient hardware for the unconventional scheme is highly desired for future highly-integrated AI hardware on a chip.

The French team at IEMN has developed a unique nanoelectromechanical resonator (NEMS), consisting of a silicon nitride drum capacitively coupled to an Al drum resonator, so called double-drum resonator. Its unique device design gives an access to comb sensing and computing function through single device element. So far, our team has also developed reservoir computing measurement setup based on microwave optomechanical detection scheme and achieved in fabrications of coupled double-drum resonator networks, financially supported by EU project Chist-ERA NOEMIA and French ANR-MORETOME projects. A simple reservoir computing function and training of artificial neuron network have been demonstrated based on single nanomechanical device.

The main mission of this postdoc project, financially supported by IMITECH project, is to develop reservoir computing function based on a coupled NEMS network, consisting of 2 or more double-drum resonators. This is beyond current state of art and relies on deep understand of more degrees of nonlinear complexity of the coupled resonator networks. The achievement of this project will bring a new unconventional scheme to next generation hardware for AI.

Activities

Activities of this position will involve (i) experimental characterization of various coupled silicon nitride nanoelectromechanical oscillators and measurement of reservoir computing based on programmed FPGA scheme, (ii) development of multi-physics models in both numerical simulations and analytical calculations, (iii) data analysis by programming, e.g. python and matlab, (iv) help and guide of Ph.D students in the team, (v) writing research reports, publishing scientific articles, presenting research results on conferences, and communicating with collaborators

Skills

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who has either engineering profile or fundamental research in domains of nonlinear dynamics, optomechanics/nanomechanics. You have or are about to obtain a PhD in at least one of the following areas: nano-mechanics/nanoelectromechancics, OR multi-physics modelling (numerical simulations, e.g. matlab or python, or analytical modeling), OR optomechanics, OR high frequency devices. You are eager to learn and expand your knowledge! Basic knowledge of analog and digital circuits. Experience with various techniques for high frequency characterization, e.g., lockin amplifier, oscilloscope, FPGA, and so on. Mandatory experience in programming (e.g. python or matlab). Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Fluency in French is also a plus, but not mandatory. You have ability to contribute effectively in a team environment while also working autonomously when required.

Work Context

The Institute of Electronic, Microelectronic and Nanotechnology (UMR CNRS 8520 – https://www.iemn.fr/en/) is in Villeneuve D'Ascq, close to the city of Lille (France). With a total staff of over 500 persons, the institute has a broad area of research activity ranging from physics to materials science, acoustics, micro- and nanotechnology. We offer reservoir computing measurement setup, high frequency NEMS characterization platform, numerical simulators, and multiphysics environment. The recruited Postdoc will be trained and technically supported by CNRS permanent researchers in IEMN. The candidate is expected to work autonomously as well as in collaboration with a research team.

The position is located in a sector under the protection of scientific and technical potential (PPST), and therefore requires, in accordance with the regulations, that your arrival is authorized by the competent authority of the MESR.

Constraints and risks

High frequency measurement risks: Training on site