Highest grades in PhD defense for Dr. Guanmin Li

Congratulations to Guanmin, our newest IMPRS alumnus!

Title: “Oscillatory Computational Networks based on Coupled VO₂ Oscillators via Tunable Thermal Triggering”

Abstract

Guanmin’s thesis explores a new, energy-efficient way to build computers inspired by the human brain. Instead of traditional silicon chips, we use unconventional electronic components called "oscillators" that can be synchronized, or made to pulse together.

We developed a simple and efficient method to control these components using heat, allowing us to build basic computing blocks (logic gates) and even model brain cells (neurons). By connecting these artificial neurons into a larger network, we successfully demonstrated a system that can recognize handwritten digits with over 90% accuracy.

Overall, Guanmin’s work shows a promising new path towards creating low-energy, brain-inspired computer hardware.