Successful PhD defence on "Methods and Design for Analog Computing Architectures: Memristors for Enhancing Expressiveness and Energy-Efficiency of Packet Processors" for Saad Saleh

Saad Saleh, CogniGron PhD candidate in the Distributed Systems group at the Faculty of Science & Engineering, successfully defended his thesis on Methods and Design for Analog Computing Architectures: Memristors for Enhancing Expressiveness and Energy-Efficiency of Packet Processors on 7 January 2025.

His research focused on showing the recent emerging technologies from the analogue domain, especially Memristors, which have a huge potential for increasing energy efficiency and supporting cognitive functions in packet processors. In short, his thesis proposes an analogue architecture for packet processors in order to support energy-efficient and cognitive functions in computer networks.

The defence was a success, featuring a stimulating exchange of ideas on the forefront of neuromorphic computing research. The session highlighted several core areas of interest for CogniGron, including computer architectures, computing models, and the material properties essential for enabling neuromorphic technologies.

The defence lasted 45 minutes and concluded with the traditional signal from the university's beadle; "Hora Finita"—a phrase marking the official end of a PhD ceremony at the University of Groningen. Following the defence, Saad was awarded his PhD certificate by the Chair, marking the culmination of years of diligent research and dedication.

He has already joined IMEC, the world’s leading independent nanoelectronics R&D hub, as a Neuromorphic Researcher and will be based in their Dutch office in the High Tech Campus, Eindhoven.

Looking back at his time at CogniGron, Saad says:

"The dedication and determination of CogniGron in advancing neuromorphic computing are truly remarkable. Prof. Dr. Beatriz Noheda has been one of the most inspiring mentors for me. Her support in terms of providing technical insights, and the required resources has been remarkable. She made sure that the required top-level in-house expertise is available. Also, she maintained a healthy and conducive learning environment at CogniGron.

CogniGron provided me the best selection of PIs like Prof. Dr. Boris Koldehofe, Prof. Dr. Tamalika Banerjee etc. The research conducted under their supervision with in-house memristor chips had been accepted at top-most conferences and workshops in Computer Science like IEEE INFOCOM and ACM HotNets."

Congratulations to Saad, as well as his supervisors, Boris Koldehofe & Alexander Lazovik, for an outstanding thesis and a milestone in neuromorphic computing research. We wish you all the best and good luck at IMEC!