Cryogenic memristors for quantum-computing control electronics

About the project

Quantum computers are limited by the quantum-classical interface, where power-hungry control electronics struggle to scale with growing qubit numbers. This project explores cryogenic memristors as ultra-low-power adaptive calibration elements that can learn and compensate for qubit drift, enabling more stable, scalable, and energy-efficient quantum computing systems and future architectures.

As qubit numbers increase, the control, calibration and readout electronics required to operate them consume significant power and generate substantial wiring complexity. A major challenge is qubit drift, where device characteristics change over time and require continuous recalibration. This project will investigate cryogenic memristors as ultra-low-power adaptive calibration and memory elements for future quantum-computing control systems.

The research aims to understand how memristors behave at cryogenic temperatures and determine whether their memory, non-linearity and learning capabilities can be exploited to compensate for qubit drift automatically. The outcomes will include new cryogenic memristor materials, device models, adaptive calibration circuits and proof-of-concept neuromorphic control architectures for scalable quantum technologies.

The project offers multidisciplinary training spanning nanofabrication, thin-film materials, cryogenic electronics, neuromorphic engineering and quantum technologies.

• Year 1: You will develop and optimise new thin-film materials for cryogenic operation, working closely with engineers from Von Ardenne GmbH through collaboration with the MEMNICS Laboratory . This will give you experience in advanced thin-film deposition, materials engineering and industrial device development.
• Year 2: You will fabricate and characterise cryogenic memristor chips, investigating switching behaviour, retention, endurance, multilevel operation and stability at low temperatures. Experimental protocols for electrical testing under cryogenic conditions will be established. Device physics models and cryogenic behavioural models will also be created.
• Year 3: You will design, build and experimentally evaluate adaptive calibration circuits and neuromorphic control architectures using cryogenic memristors. Demonstrator systems will be developed to assess their ability to compensate for qubit drift and reduce power consumption for future quantum-computing.

Dr Firman Simanjuntak MIET, MInstP, SMIEEE, FHEA

• Data storage, AI-hardware accelerator, secured hardware and sensors
• Nanoelectronics for space and nuclear environments

Entry requirements

You must have an undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree) or its international equivalent .

Fees and funding

For candidates looking to complete a PhD or EngD full-time we offer an enhanced tax-free stipend of up to £30,000 per year, along with a substantial budget for research, travel, and centre activities.

CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break or are transitioning into a new role. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance.

We are pleased to announce that for 2027/28 entry, specific Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) at the University of Southampton have been selected to be part of a pilot programme of funding for UK doctoral candidates launched by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Now managed by the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport (DCMS), the funding is delivered through a strand of government’s new TechFirst skills programme. TechFirst will fund nationally, a stipend uplift for at least 500 domestic (UK only) doctoral students in priority technology areas over the next four years, strengthening the UK’s innovation pipeline and building a more inclusive, resilient and high-impact research ecosystem.

How to apply

Apply now

Please apply via the online portal and select:

Applications should include:

• Academic year: 2027/28
• If you will be full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Search for PhD Quantum Tech Eng
• Select either PhD or EngD – if you are unsure, select PhD
• Add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, email our Doctoral College (doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk) .

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr Firman Simanjuntak (f.m.simanjuntak@soton.ac.uk).

Research areas