NeuroAI: Charlotte Frenkel explores the future of AI inspired by the human brain

Dr. Charlotte Frenkel, based at TU Delft and recipient of the AiNed Fellowship grant, is a leading figure in the field of neuromorphic computing. This innovative research area aims to develop computing systems that, like the human brain, efficiently combine data processing and memory. This is crucial as existing computers consume much of their energy retrieving data from memory, leading to issues in speed and energy consumption.

Neuromorphic computing seeks to overcome these limitations by translating the biological principles of the brain into computer systems. Frenkel highlights that silicon transistors can now be designed to mimic the flow of ions in brain cells, resulting in significant energy savings, though challenges remain in achieving the accuracy of digital computers.

With the AiNed Fellowship grant, Frenkel leads a research team of four PhD candidates and a postdoctoral researcher. Together, they explore how insights from neuroscience can be applied to the design of AI systems. Their goal is to develop systems that are both energy- and data-efficient, such as prosthetics that learn based on minimal data, or small drones used for search and rescue operations.

Frenkel expects to develop a first hardware prototype within two years, aiming to create a large-scale mixed analog-digital neuromorphic system within four years. This multidisciplinary research will not only contribute to more efficient AI systems but also strengthen the Dutch AI ecosystem by attracting top talent and providing space for innovative AI applications.

For more information, please visit AiNed.