• Neuromorphic or unconventional computing represents a new generation of computing technologies inspired by the human brain
• The new collaboration will accelerate the development, deployment, and industrial adoption of neuromorphic computing across the UK
• It will also support industry needs and support of SMEs in West Midlands and UK.

Aston University and the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC) Hartree Centre are joining forces to accelerate the development, deployment, and industrial adoption of neuromorphic computing across the UK.

They have signed an agreement to set up the Aston-Hartree Neuromorphic Centre of Competence at Aston University which will bring together academia, industry, and public sector stakeholders. It will act as a focal point for joint activities, shared expertise, and coordinated engagement across the UK and internationally.

Neuromorphic, or unconventional computing, is a new generation of computing technologies inspired by the human brain, where information is processed in non-digital and energy-efficient way. Instead of relying only on traditional digital methods, it processes information in more flexible and energy-efficient ways. By learning from nature, this approach could lead to smarter AI, faster real-time decisions, and more efficient technologies for an increasingly data-driven world.

The partnership aims to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world deployment. The Hartree Centre is part of the government’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). It is home to some of the most advanced digital technologies and experts in the UK and has strengths in technology translation and industrial engagement.

The main partner at Aston University is the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AIPT), which leads the UK Multidisciplinary Centre for Neuromorphic Systems and Computing: NeuroSYNC. It will bring to this new collaboration Aston’s world-leading expertise in neuromorphic and unconventional computing, photonics, neuroscience, sensing, data science, and innovation.

Under the agreement, the Hartree Centre will serve as a key delivery partner, supporting the development of the NeuroSYNC’s neuromorphic computing roadmap. This will include the co-design of proof-of-concept applications in neuromorphic computing and energy-efficient AI, alongside the development of scalable, commercially relevant solutions aligned with industry needs and support of SMEs in West Midlands and UK. The partnership will also play a critical role in shaping future neuromorphic system procurement, including benchmarking, evaluation, infrastructure development, and integration into existing computing environments.

The collaboration will begin with a strong focus on joint research and innovation projects, shared funding initiatives, and active engagement with stakeholders across healthcare, energy, advanced manufacturing, defence, and other key sectors. It will also explore how neuromorphic technologies can be combined with high-performance computing to create powerful hybrid systems capable of tackling complex, real-world challenges.

Looking ahead, the partners aim to build a sustainable, nationally significant capability that grows in scale and impact, supported by joint publications, major international conferences, training programmes, and knowledge exchange. The partnership will also open new pathways for skills development through secondments, student placements, and interdisciplinary training, helping to shape the next generation of researchers and engineers in this rapidly emerging field.

Professor Vassil Alexandrov, chief science officer, STFC Hartree Centre said:
“This collaboration brings together complementary strengths in advanced computing, emerging computing paradigms, and research and innovation. By working together, we can help accelerate the development of neuromorphic technologies and support their adoption in ways that deliver real impact for UK science and industry.”

The new centre will complement Aston’s existing Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute which is dedicated to harnessing digital innovation to transform industries, services, and society.

Professor Mike Caine Interim Vice-Chancellor, Aston University said:
"The new partnership builds on the University’s wider commitment to digital innovation and sits alongside the work of the University’s Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute, contributing to a shared agenda around next generation computing, artificial intelligence and societal impact.
“The partnership will draw on complementary expertise across the University while remaining a distinct collaboration focused on translational research and external engagement."

Professor Sergei Turitsyn, director of AIPT, director of NeuroSYNC, Aston University added:
“Technology is changing the world. This joint statement of endeavour reflects a shared ambition to position the UK, Aston University, and West Midland - the historical heart of the Industrial Revolution, at the forefront of next-generation computing. Through blending scientific excellence and focus on real-world impact, this partnership will unlock the new transformative opportunities for the region.”