Yoeri van de Burgt is researching new smart materials that can make artificial intelligence more efficient by processing information directly at the place where it arises.
Computers that work like brains
In recent years, artificial intelligence has taken off in our daily lives, from translation computers to self-driving cars. Unfortunately, these systems guzzle energy: modern AI data centres use as much electricity as a small city. The human brain, on the other hand, can perform complex tasks with the energy consumption of an LED light bulb. This inspired Yoeri van de Burgt to move in a revolutionary direction: developing computers that work like our brains.
Van de Burgt, associate professor at Eindhoven University of Technology, is a pioneer in the field of neuromorphic technology. He develops hardware networks of artificial neurons and synapses that, like our brains, process electrical signals with minimal energy consumption. Whereas current computers with silicon chips use a lot of energy to process AI tasks, Van de Burgt uses organic materials that mimic the natural functioning of brain cells. These materials are not only energy-efficient but also flexible and biocompatible, making them ideal for applications that merge technology and biology.
One of his most groundbreaking innovations is the development of electrochemical random-access memory (ECRAM). This memory mimics the connections between brain cells and can process information directly where it arises, without first having to send it to large data centres. What is special about ECRAM is that it can adapt itself and learn from new information, just like brains. This allows robots to learn to navigate on their own and biosensors to become ever better at recognising disease – all with minimal energy consumption. The system has been so successful that research institutes such as MIT and companies like IBM are further developing this technology.
Characteristic of Van de Burgt's work is his ability to combine different fields of expertise. He brings together expertise from technology, materials science, chemistry, bioelectronics and artificial intelligence. This multidisciplinary approach enables him not only to develop new materials, but also to directly apply them in working systems such as smart robots and systems that interact with the body, such as prosthetics. With his original approach and ability to look beyond traditional professional boundaries, he inspires other scientists to explore new directions.
In the coming years, Van de Burgt plans to further develop his technology for medical applications, such as implants that adapt to the body. By bringing technology and biology together in this way, he is working on a new generation of computers that are not only more powerful and economical, but also match the natural functioning of the human body. This offers possibilities for smart prosthetics that can interpret nerve signals and respond directly to the user's needs. Ultimately, he hopes this will contribute to a future where man and machine can work together in a sustainable and natural way.
Yoeri van de Burgt (1986) studied mechanical engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology where he graduated cum laude in 2010. In 2014 he obtained his PhD from the same university after which he worked in industry for a year, initially at TNO Holst Centre in Eindhoven and then at the startup FEMTOprint in Switzerland. In early 2015, Van de Burgt started as a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University in the US; he returned at the end of 2016 to start his own research group. Van de Burgt has won multiple awards and research grants including ERC Starting and Consolidator grants, as well as the MIT Innovators Under 35 Europe and the TU/e Groundbreaking Reseacher Award.
