PhD Position – Learning in Dynamical Coupled Oscillator Networks

PGI-14 - Neuromorphic Compute Nodes

PHD Thesis

Your Job:

Networks of coupled oscillators are highly complex dynamical systems, and according to this property and additionally motivated by biological observations they have been used for the development of new non von Neumann computing systems. In many of these approaches the oscillator network is somehow considered as a black box. The aim of your work is to utilize the knowledge about the dynamical structure of the oscillator network, e.g. coexisting attractors and stability analysis, to optimize the system for the computational task in mind. In particular, the effect of delayed coupling on the complexity of the dynamics, such as symmetry breaking in the form of chimera states, shall be investigated and used to improve the performance with respect to the solution of the specific problem. Your tasks in detail:

• Parameter studies on coupled oscillator networks
  
• Identify computational tasks for the oscillator network
  
• Engineer the network parameters (topology, delay distribution, coupling strength, …) for a best match with the computational task
  
• Set up simulation models to benchmark the performance
  
• Work on concepts for implementation of the physical neural network

Your Profile:

A strong background in mathematics and dynamical system theory and interest in applying this knowledge for solving real world problems are important qualities for this position. Additionally, enjoyment of teamwork is an important requirement.

• You hold a Master’s degree in physics, computer science, mathematics, electrical/electronic engineering or a related field
  
• Experience in dynamical system theory and simulation models
  
• Interest in bio-inspired information processing
  
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team are essential
  
• Strong English skills will be required for the international working environment

Our Offer:

We work on cutting-edge research topics with a high potential to positively impact society. We offer ideal conditions for you to complete your doctoral degree:

• A world-leading, international research environment with state-of-the-art equipment
  
• Opportunity to work in the highly interdisciplinary and exciting field of neuromorphic and brain-inspired computing, collaborating with physicists, neuroscientists, materials scientists, and engineers
  
• Flexible working arrangements
  
• 30 days of annual leave as well as an arrangement for bridging days (e.g. between Christmas and New Year’s Day)
  
• Further development of your personal strengths, e.g. through an extensive range of training courses; a structured program of continuing education and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral researchers via JuDocS, the Jülich Center for Doctoral Researchers and Supervisors: www.fz-juelich.de/judocs
  
• Targeted services for international employees, e.g. through our International Advisory Service
  

More information: www.fz-juelich.de/en/pgi/pgi-14

The position is for a fixed term of 3 years. Pay in line with 75% of pay group 13 of the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD-Bund) and additionally 60 % of a monthly salary as special payment („Christmas bonus“). Further information on doctoral degrees at Forschungszentrum Jülich including our other locations is available at: www.fz-juelich.de/gp/Careers_Docs

Place of employment: Aachen

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.