The University of Strathclyde is among a consortium of leading UK institutions collaborating on the country’s first Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) dedicated to neuromorphic – or brain-inspired – computing hardware.
The centre, known as Neuroware, is being supported by £12.8 million from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Led by University College London (UCL) it will launch in October 2025, and over the next five years will accelerate the development and commercialisation of next generation computing technologies that mimic how the brain processes information.
Semiconductor systems
Strathclyde will work on research into neuromorphic photonics – brain-inspired computing systems that use light rather than electricity to process information – one of three core technical strands of the centre. This builds on Strathclyde’s recognised expertise in photonics and advanced semiconductor systems, housed within the University’s Institute of Photonics.
The IKC will bring together researchers from across the UK, including the universities of Cambridge, Oxford, Manchester, Sheffield, Imperial College London, King’s College London, and Strathclyde, as well as the National Physical Laboratory. Key areas of focus will include silicon-based processors, next-generation materials, and unconventional platforms such as photonic neuromorphic systems.
Professor Antonio Hurtado, UKRI Turing AI Fellow in Strathclyde’s Institute of Photonics, said: “Neuromorphic computing is emerging as a key technology for efficient and versatile computation. Photonics, thanks to its use of light signals, offers faster and lower-power operation.
“Combining together neuromorphic and photonic technologies opens exciting paths toward novel light-powered, brain-like computing. We’re thrilled to work with world-leading partners to advance this research and its impact in the UK.”
Real-world impact
Professor Tony Kenyon, Director of the IKC at UCL, said: “Neuromorphic computing is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the UK to lead in a transformative technology. We already have the research excellence and a vibrant start-up ecosystem.
The Neuroware centre will provide the structure, scale and support to turn that potential into real-world impact.
"I am delighted to be working with such an inspiring set of academic and industrial partners.”
The Centre will also support the translation of research into industrial applications, including edge artificial intelligence, healthcare, and ultra-low-power sensor systems. A dedicated industrial user group – including major firms such as Arm, Intel, Microsoft and Samsung – will guide commercial engagement and adoption.
Neuroware will operate as a multi-hub centre, with Strathclyde contributing to the neuromorphic photonics strand, alongside its broader role in developing future light-enabled semiconductor technologies that are fast, energy-efficient and scalable.