Knight Research Scholars Program Project Development of Optoelectronic Materials for Synapse Devices

Learn about this research project, meet the faculty and student researchers, review participation expectations, and check current availability.

Project Availability

Team Size
2 team members
Open Spots
2 spots open
Affiliations
College of Engineering and Computer Science
Semester
Fall 2026
Team Leader
Faculty Mentor
  • Jayan Thomas, PhD

Team Member Qualifications

Preferred: Must have some basic knowledge of physics and materials science.
Required: Need EHS labs safety courses.

Description

This project focuses on developing novel optoelectronic materials for neuromorphic synapse devices that emulate the learning and memory functions of biological synapses. The research involves designing and integrating light-responsive semiconductor materials, including organic and perovskite-based materials, into two-terminal device architectures. The optical and electrical properties of the materials will be investigated to achieve wavelength-dependent synaptic responses, plasticity, potentiation/depression, and memory behavior. The developed devices will be further evaluated for their potential in neuromorphic computing and artificial neural network applications, with the goal of enabling low-power, multifunctional, and optically controlled artificial synaptic systems.