EPSRC UK Multidisciplinary Centre for Neuromorphic Computing

Funding to establish a UK centre for neuromorphic computing.

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is providing funding to establish a UK centre for neuromorphic computing. This will be a focal point to engage relevant disciplines, further research and demonstrate the potential of the technology to deliver net zero solutions for emerging technologies and applications across the full stack, such as AI, quantum computing, etc.

A single centre will be funded, which should:

Draw in all stakeholders

• Engage across and bring together neuromorphic computing, including (but not limited to) the multidisciplinary academic community of computer science, software engineering, semiconductors and hardware and neuroscience.
• Create a unified sector voice and common language across the disciplines and across the stack to accelerate innovation.
• Bring together the research community, policy makers and industrial partners.
• Work internationally to demonstrate the capability of neuromorphic computing research and innovation in the UK.

Seed a UK research and innovation programme in neuromorphic computing

• Carry out UK landscaping and road mapping to evaluate the current state and opportunities for the area, which will provide evidence of the benefits and potential of neuromorphic computing to inform stakeholders.
• Engage with existing investments across UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), linking current and future investments to add value.
• Build a focused research and innovation programme across the full stack to address core research challenges in neuromorphic computing.
• Target the core research challenges that will advance the discipline and demonstrate its power.
• The programme of research must be outcomes focused, with clear goals that can be delivered within the timeframe, moving the area forwards.

Provide a focal point for neuromorphic computing research in the UK

• Demonstrate the capabilities and potential of neuromorphic computing in real world scenarios and in different sectors, including use cases.
• Interface with technologies that could benefit from neuromorphic computing (such as AI, quantum computing and so on).

The duration of the award is a minimum of four years.