What we do

What is neuromorphic computing, and why is it so important?

It’s hard to imagine a life without the convenience of an online search, working in the cloud, communicating online or consulting ChatGPT. Computing has acquired a central role in our society, and although it has brought global prosperity, it has a downside. Surging data traffic and related energy consumption by data centres, partly due to the rapid increase of AI, cause an unsustainable demand that can’t be met by modern computers.

For this reason, it’s time for a new generation of computers: future-proof computing. This type of computing is an approach that mimics processes of the human brain and is called neuromorphic computing.

Game changer for future-proof computing

Despite more than 70 years of continuous innovation within chip and computer design, current events require a new, revolutionary approach. To sustain the use of computers, we must combine knowledge and experience from the past 70 years and explore new materials and forms of computer design.

The revolution: neuromorphic computing and engineering. Neuromorphic computing is revolutionising the way we approach artificial intelligence by mimicking the brain's architecture through spiking neural networks and specialised neuromorphic chips.

Brain-inspired computer chips: 10,000x more energy efficient

These technologies are at the forefront of neural network hardware innovation, enabling the development of advanced neuromorphic processors designed to process information more efficiently than traditional systems. As the demand for artificial intelligence hardware grows, particularly in low-power AI computing, neuromorphic solutions are paving the way for groundbreaking neuromorphic AI applications that push the boundaries of what machines can achieve.

This is why our research at CogniGron is inspired and guided by how our mind works. Groningen Cognitive Systems and Materials Center (CogniGron) is part of the University of Groningen and a globally recognised and unique multidisciplinary research centre. We conduct fundamental research on self-learning materials and systems for future-proof computing.

Designing a blueprint for neuromorphic computing

As CogniGron continues to conduct fundamental research into future-proof computing, translating existing knowledge into specific applications, we aim to connect our scientific knowledge and business skills. We envision an ecosystem where business and knowledge partners collaborate and work on brain-inspired energy-efficient computing solutions.

Within our ecosystem, we will collaborate on:

• Developing new materials as the basis for future-proof computer chips

• Integrating applied engineering research to translate our knowledge into production

• Initiating first applications for the implementation of neuromorphic computing
• Establishing start-ups to bring applications to market