PhD Position: Neuromorphic CMOS Spiking Neural Networks at SDU

Are you passionate about neuromorphic computing and hardware design? Do you want to contribute to the next generation of brain-inspired computing systems for healthcare applications?

We invite applications for a PhD position, focusing on the design and implementation of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) using CMOS technology.

Project Overview

This PhD position is part of a multidisciplinary research initiative focused on developing intelligent assistive technologies driven by brain-inspired computing. The broader goal of the project is to enable seamless interaction between humans and machines by interpreting brain activity (e.g., EEG signals) in real time using energy-efficient neuromorphic hardware.

You will work on the design and hardware realization of Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs), aiming to bridge neuroscience and electronics. The project integrates expertise from circuit design, machine learning, and neurotechnology to deliver innovative solutions for applications such as brain-computer interfaces, cognitive rehabilitation, and neural prosthetics.

Your contributions will support the development of a custom CMOS-based SNN processor that can operate in ultra-low-power environments, suitable for wearable or implantable devices. The research will focus on hardware-software co-design, from modeling spiking behavior to implementing scalable architectures on silicon.

Key research themes include:

• CMOS-based neuron and synapse circuit design
• Low-power digital architecture for SNN processing
• On-chip learning mechanisms
• Integration with sensor interfaces for biomedical signal processing

What You Will Do

• Design and simulate CMOS circuits for spiking neuron models
• Develop and validate digital/mixed-signal SNN hardware
• Collaborate with neuroscientists and system-level designers
• Contribute to real-world applications in brain-computer interfaces
• Publish in leading conferences and journals

We Are Looking For

• A Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field
• Experience with VLSI design (Cadence tools, Verilog/VHDL, SPICE)
• Knowledge of neural networks and neuromorphic systems is a strong advantage
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB) and interest in interdisciplinary research
• Strong motivation and ability to work independently and collaboratively

What We Offer

• Full-time, 3-year PhD position (salary according to Danish PhD standards)
• Access to state-of-the-art labs and design tools
• Supervision by experts in neuromorphic engineering and biomedical systems
• A collaborative and inclusive research environment
• Opportunities to participate in international conferences and research visits

Join us in shaping the future of brain-inspired electronics!

For questions or informal inquiries, contact Hooman Farkhani (stephanie73fostercharlesfarkhaniglassteresa@lowe.dktaylor-morris.dksdu.dkking.dk) and Farshad Moradi (nespinozabarbara34moradi@cole-perry.dkleon.dksdu.dk)

If you experience technical problems, please contact juliaduranhcm-supportdpenagonzalezjohnny@perkins-diaz.dksdu.dkolson.dk.

Application procedure

Before applying the candidates are advised to read the Faculty information for prospective PhD students and the SDU information on how to apply.

Assessment of the candidates is based on the application material, and an application must include:

• Motivated application.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Master’s and bachelor’s degree certificates or equivalent, including transcripts of grades (copy of original/official English translation).
• Completed TEK PhD application form for 5+3 applicants. Find the form at the Faculty website.
• Completed TEK PhD form for calculation grade point average. Find the form at the Faculty website.
• An official document describing the grading scheme of the awarding universities (if not Danish).
• Only for applicants from programmes that evaluate thesis/examination project by approved/not approved: An official written assessment of the thesis or dissertation project from the grade giving institution. The statement must clearly state that the candidate has been among the top 30 pct. in the graduation class for the study programme.
• List of publications and maximum 2 examples of relevant publications (in case you have any publications).
• References may be included, you're welcome to use the form for reference letter at the Faculty website.
• A statement/documentation of other qualifications relevant to the position may also be included.

SUBMISSION GUIDE: Motivated application shall be uploaded as ‘Cover letter’ (max. 5 MB), Curriculum Vitae shall be uploaded as ‘Resume’ (max 5 MB). All other documents shall be uploaded as ‘Miscellaneous documents’ (max 10 files of max 50 MB per file).

All documents must be in English and PDF format. CPR number (civil registration no.) must be crossed out. All PDF-files must be unlocked and allow binding and may not be password protected.

The application deadline is September 15, 2025,at 11.59 PM / 23.59 (CET/CEST)

Assessment and selection process

Applications will be assessed by an assessment committee. Shortlisting may be applied, and only shortlisted candidates will receive a written assessment. Read about shortlisting at SDU. Interviews and tests may be part of the overall evaluation.

Read about the Assessment and selection process.

Conditions of enrollment/employment

Appointment as a PhD fellow is a 3-year salaried position, and the monthly gross salary incl. pension is 36.138 DKK. If you have relevant postgraduate experience, you may be placed on a higher salary step.

The start date will be agreed with the successful candidate.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree (equivalent to a Danish master's degree) at the time of enrollment and employment. Employment is contingent on enrollment approved by the PhD School. Enrollment will be in accordance with Faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order). Employment will be in accordance with the collective agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations for academics in the state with the associated circular on the job structure for academic staff at Danish universities and the provisions for PhD fellows as described herein as well as the Protocol on PhD fellows signed by the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC). Further information about salary and conditions of employment. The person employed in the position may, based on a specific individual managerial evaluation, be exempted from time registration, also known as a “self-organizer”.

The University of Southern Denmark wishes our staff to reflect the surrounding community and therefore encourages everyone, regardless of personal background, to apply for the position. SDU conducts research in critical technologies, which, due to the risk of unwanted knowledge transfer, are subject to a number of security measures. Therefore, based on information from open sources, background checks may be conducted on candidates for the position.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark. You may also visit WorkinDenmark for additional information.

Further information about The Faculty of Engineering.