Brain-inspired computing needs a master plan

New computing technologies inspired by the brain promise fundamentally different ways to process information with extreme energy efficiency and the ability to handle the avalanche of unstructured and noisy data that we are generating at an ever-increasing rate. To realize this promise requires a brave and coordinated plan to bring together disparate research communities and to provide them with the funding, focus and support needed. We have done this in the past with digital technologies; we are in the process of doing it with quantum technologies; can we now do it for brain-inspired computing? The benefits and future prospects of neuromorphic, or bio-inspired, computing technologies are discussed, as is the need for a global, coordinated approach to funding, research and collaboration.

• Publication year

  2021

• Venue

  Nature

• Publication date

  2021-04-29

• Fields of study

  Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering

• Identifiers
  DOI 10.1038/s41586-021-04362-warXiv 2104.14517PMID 35418630
• External record

  Open on Semantic Scholar

• Source metadata

  Semantic Scholar, PubMed

• No claims are published for this paper.

• No concepts are published for this paper.

• Memristive synapses connect brain and silicon spiking neurons

  2020cited by this paper
• Author Correction: How we created neuromorphic engineering

  2020cited by this paper
• Memristors—From In‐Memory Computing, Deep Learning Acceleration, and Spiking Neural Networks to the Future of Neuromorphic and Bio‐Inspired Computing

  2020cited by this paper
• Power-efficient neural network with artificial dendrites

  2020cited by this paper
• Temporary reduction in daily global CO2 emissions during the COVID-19 forced confinement

  2020cited by this paper
• A 4096-Neuron 1M-Synapse 3.8-pJ/SOP Spiking Neural Network With On-Chip STDP Learning and Sparse Weights in 10-nm FinFET CMOS

  2019cited by this paper
• Quantum gold rush: the private funding pouring into quantum start-ups

  2019cited by this paper
• Towards artificial general intelligence with hybrid Tianjic chip architecture

  2019cited by this paper
• MAGNet: A Modular Accelerator Generator for Neural Networks

  2019cited by this paper
• AI hardware acceleration with analog memory: Microarchitectures for low energy at high speed

  2019cited by this paper
• Fully Integrated Spiking Neural Network with Analog Neurons and RRAM Synapses

  2019cited by this paper
• A 0.11 PJ/OP, 0.32-128 Tops, Scalable Multi-Chip-Module-Based Deep Neural Network Accelerator Designed with A High-Productivity vlsi Methodology

  2019cited by this paper
• A 0.086-mm$^2$ 12.7-pJ/SOP 64k-Synapse 256-Neuron Online-Learning Digital Spiking Neuromorphic Processor in 28-nm CMOS

  2018cited by this paper
• Large-Scale Neuromorphic Spiking Array Processors: A Quest to Mimic the Brain

  2018cited by this paper
• How to stop data centres from gobbling up the world’s electricity

  2018cited by this paper
• China's AI imperative.

  2018influential reference
• Loihi: A Neuromorphic Manycore Processor with On-Chip Learning

  2018cited by this paper
• A 0.086-mm2 9.8-pJ/SOP 64k-Synapse 256-Neuron Online-Learning Digital Spiking Neuromorphic Processor in 28nm CMOS

  2018cited by this paper
• Neuromorphic Hardware Architecture Using the Neural Engineering Framework for Pattern Recognition

  2017cited by this paper
• Multiscale Co-Design Analysis of Energy, Latency, Area, and Accuracy of a ReRAM Analog Neural Training Accelerator

  2017cited by this paper
• Chaotic dynamics in nanoscale NbO2 Mott memristors for analogue computing

  2017cited by this paper
• A Scalable Multicore Architecture With Heterogeneous Memory Structures for Dynamic Neuromorphic Asynchronous Processors (DYNAPs)

  2017cited by this paper
• Neuromorphic hardware in the loop: Training a deep spiking network on the BrainScaleS wafer-scale system

  2017cited by this paper
• Acceleration of Deep Neural Network Training with Resistive Cross-Point Devices: Design Considerations

  2016cited by this paper
• A neuromorphic hardware architecture using the Neural Engineering Framework for pattern recognition

  2015cited by this paper
• A reconfigurable on-line learning spiking neuromorphic processor comprising 256 neurons and 128K synapses

  2015cited by this paper
• Neurogrid: A Mixed-Analog-Digital Multichip System for Large-Scale Neural Simulations

  2014cited by this paper
• The SpiNNaker Project

  2014cited by this paper
• A million spiking-neuron integrated circuit with a scalable communication network and interface

  2014cited by this paper
• Memristor, Hodgkin–Huxley, and Edge of Chaos

  2013cited by this paper
• Europa

  2012cited by this paper
• Neuromorphic Silicon Neuron Circuits

  2011cited by this paper
• Reuters

  2009influential reference
• Analog VLSI and neural systems

  1989cited by this paper
• A quantitative description of membrane current and its application to conduction and excitation in nerve

  1952cited by this paper

• Orbit-Torque Spintronic Devices for Variation-Robust Neuromorphic Computing

  2026cites this paper
• HRB: A backfilling algorithm for heterogeneous clusters with job prioritization

  2026cites this paper
• Sustainable All-Inorganic Double Perovskite Memristors Enabling Synaptic Learning and Cognitive Emulation.

  2026cites this paper
• Integration and Application of Two-Dimensional Materials

  2026cites this paper
• Probabilistic Photonic Computing

  2026cites this paper
• Ultrasensitive 2D Vermiculite Inorganic Liquid Crystals for Nonlinear Optical Activation.

  2026cites this paper
• All‐Optical Modulated Bidirectional Responsive Synaptic Devices: Materials, Mechanisms, and Applications

  2026cites this paper
• AI-driven multiscale virtual plant cell modeling: from molecular mechanisms to tissue functions

  2026cites this paper
• Wafer‐Scale Organic Neuromorphic Sensors for Programmable Displaying

  2026cites this paper
• 1T1M neuromorphic infrared perception based on PbS-QDs decorated IGZO TFT and NbOx Mott Memristor with event-driven property

  2026cites this paper
• Organic Transistor-Based Neuromorphic Electronics and Their Recent Applications.

  2026cites this paper
• Spike-based Q-learning in a non-von Neumann architecture.

  2026cites this paper
• Scalable Platform Enabling Reservoir Computing With Nanoporous Oxide Memristors for Image Recognition and Time Series Prediction

  2026cites this paper
• Variation-robust CMOS monostable multivibrator-based spiking neuron and spiking neural networks

  2026cites this paper
• Sub-picojoule-per-bit volitional neuromorphic devices for precise targeting and tracking

  2026cites this paper
• A New Era in Computing: A Review of Neuromorphic Computing Chip Architecture and Applications

  2026cites this paper
• Physical Analog Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks based on Reconfigurable Nonlinear-Processing Units

  2026cites this paper
• Technology Roadmap of Bioinspired Computing Hardware.

  2026cites this paper
• Oxygen Plasma-Assisted Bipolar Doping of WSe2 for Reinforcement Learning Synaptic Devices.

  2026cites this paper
• All‐Ferroelectric Memtransistors for Brain‐Inspired Computing

  2026cites this paper
• Tunable Hydrogen Dynamics Under Electrical Bias for Neuromorphic Memory Applications.

  2026cites this paper
• Towards dynamic computing: Multi-dynamic neuronal-synaptic transistors for visual intelligence

  2026cites this paper
• Beyond mimicry: a framework for evaluating genuine intelligence in artificial systems

  2026cites this paper
• Model-agnostic linear-memory online learning in spiking neural networks

  2026cites this paper
• Rewiring Droplet Interface Synapses

  2026cites this paper
• Benchmark evaluation of deepseek AI models in antibacterial clinical decision-making for infectious diseases

  2026cites this paper
• An energy-efficient NbO x /ZrO 2 bilayer memristor enabling low-voltage multilevel switching for neuromorphic computing

  2026cites this paper
• Multidimensional photonic computing

  2026cites this paper
• All-optically controlled terahertz memristor for multidimensional neuromorphic computing

  2026cites this paper
• Emerging Threats and Countermeasures in Neuromorphic Systems: A Survey

  2026cites this paper
• Multiterminal Tunable InZnO Dendritic Transistor-Based Reservoir Computing for Chaotic Time Series Prediction

  2025cites this paper
• Recent Advances in on-Chip Learning with Organic Neuromorphic Circuits

  2025cites this paper
• Perovskite Neuromorphic Engine for Transformer Architectures

  2025cites this paper
• A brain-inspired projection contrastive learning network for instantaneous learning

  2025cites this paper
• A scalable 3D packaging technique for brain organoid arrays toward high-capacity bioprocessors.

  2025cites this paper
• A 0.66-mm2 0.49 pJ/SOP SNN Processor With Temporal-Spatial Post-Neuron-Processing and Model-Adaptive Crossbar in 40-nm CMOS

  2025cites this paper
• ViStream: Improving Computation Efficiency of Visual Streaming Perception via Law-of-Charge-Conservation Inspired Spiking Neural Network

  2025cites this paper
• In-Memory Optical Computing with Non-Volatile Silicon Photonic Memory

  2025cites this paper
• Probabilistic photonic computing for AI

  2025cites this paper
• Remote sensing intelligent interpretation brain: Real-time intelligent understanding of the Earth

  2025cites this paper
• Rare-earth nitrides: fundamental advances and applications in cryogenic electronics

  2025cites this paper
• Hyperdimensional computing in biomedical sciences: a brief review

  2025cites this paper
• Neuromorphic-based metaheuristics: A new generation of low power, low latency and small footprint optimization algorithms

  2025cites this paper
• Web Intelligence (WI) 3.0: in search of a better-connected world to create a future intelligent society

  2025cites this paper
• The potential of multidimensional photonic computing

  2025cites this paper
• Self-organizing neuromorphic nanowire networks as stochastic dynamical systems

  2025influential citation
• Bioengineering innovations for neural organoids with enhanced fidelity and function.

  2025cites this paper
• Neuromorphic Light‐Responsive Organic Matter for in Materia Reservoir Computing

  2025cites this paper
• Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 with Enhanced Intermediate Polarization: A Platform for Neuromorphic and Logic-in-Memory Computing.

  2025cites this paper
• C3CIM: Constant Column Current Memristor-Based Computation-in-Memory Micro-Architecture

  2025cites this paper
• On Implementing Technomorph Biology for Inefficient Computing

  2025cites this paper
• Rational design of a vision fusion system with visible and near-infrared spectral integration for improved environmental perception

  2025cites this paper
• Reconfigurable Artificial Synapses Based on Ambipolar Environmentally Stable Tellurium for Neuromorphic Computing.

  2025cites this paper
• Sensing and Memory Integrated X-ray Detector Made of Hydrion-Conductive Perovskite with Anisotropic Response.

  2025cites this paper
• Enabling Selective and Tunable Weight Updates in All-InGaZnO 3-Transistor 1-Capacitor Synaptic Circuits for On-Chip Training

  2025cites this paper
• Artificial Intelligence‐Driven Approaches in Semiconductor Research

  2025cites this paper
• High-accuracy inference using HfOxSy/HfS2 memristors

  2025cites this paper
• Unconventional Multimodal Switching in Single‐Crystalline Nanowire Channel ECRAM

  2025cites this paper
• Neuromorphic Computing Chips: Challenges and Trends

  2025cites this paper
• Mimicking Synaptic Plasticity: Optoionic MoS2 Memory Powered by Biopolymer Hydrogels as a Dynamic Cations Reservoir

  2025cites this paper
• CMOS Compatible Spike Vision Sensor

  2025cites this paper
• Vertical Electrolyte‐Gated Transistors: Structures, Materials, Integrations, and Applications

  2025cites this paper
• Chemical AI in the Limelight: The Contribution of Photochromic Materials and Oscillatory Chemical Reactions

  2025cites this paper
• Memory technology enabling future computing systems

  2025cites this paper
• A review of MXene memristors and their applications

  2025cites this paper
• Artificial Intelligence Based Emotion Recognition from Fuzzy EEG Signals: A Comprehensive Review

  2025cites this paper
• All-Optical Inhibitory Dynamics by Backscattering With Unidirectional Injection-Locked Photonic Spiking Neuron

  2025cites this paper
• The growing memristor industry

  2025cites this paper
• Bioinspired gas-receptor synergistic interaction for high-performance two-dimensional neuromorphic devices

  2025cites this paper
• Programmable 2H-MoTe2 FGFET-Based CMOS Array.

  2025cites this paper
• Resistive switching devices empower the AI era

  2025cites this paper
• Tunable Optoelectronic Memristor Based on MoS2/BaTiO3 for Neuromorphic Vision

  2025cites this paper
• Ultra‐Fast Non‐Volatile Resistive Switching Devices with Over 512 Distinct and Stable Levels for Memory and Neuromorphic Computing

  2025cites this paper
• Bio-Inspired Neuromorphic Circuit Design of Nonassociative Learning for Multisensory Enhancement and Depression

  2025cites this paper
• A memristive computational neural network model for time-series processing

  2025cites this paper
• Hardware Implementation of Tunable Fractional-Order Capacitors by Morphogenesis of Conducting Polymer Dendrites

  2025cites this paper
• Inkjet‐printed reconfigurable and recyclable memristors on paper

  2025cites this paper
• Toward Cognitive Machines: Evaluating Single Device Based Spiking Neural Networks for Brain-Inspired Computing

  2025cites this paper
• Adaptive optoelectronic transistor for intelligent vision system

  2025cites this paper
• Piezo-strain induced nonvolatile control of magnetic skyrmion nonlinear dynamics for artificial synapse device applications

  2025cites this paper
• Bioinspired ion-shuttling memristor with both neuromorphic functions and ion selectivity

  2025cites this paper
• Interface engineering for enhanced memristive devices and neuromorphic computing applications

  2025cites this paper
• Ephaptic Coupling in Ultralow‐Power Ion‐Gel Nanofiber Artificial Synapses for Enhanced Working Memory

  2025cites this paper
• Carbon-based iontronics – current state and future perspectives

  2025cites this paper
• A bio-inspired hardware implementation of an analog spike-based hippocampus memory model

  2025cites this paper
• Towards Energy-efficient Audio-visual Classification via Multimodal Interactive Spiking Neural Network

  2025cites this paper
• Neuromorphic Intelligence

  2025cites this paper
• Synaptic and neural behaviours in a standard silicon transistor

  2025cites this paper
• Versatile silicon integrated photonic processor: a reconfigurable solution for netx-generation AI clusters

  2025cites this paper
• Emerging 2D Material‐Based Synaptic Devices: Principles, Mechanisms, Improvements, and Applications

  2025cites this paper
• Melting‐Free Crystalline Polymorphic Transition in CrTe Thin Films: Potential for Phase‐Change Random Access Memory Applications

  2025cites this paper
• Recent Strategies in Channel Modulation for High-Performance Neuromorphic Computing Based on Electrolyte-Gated Organic Synaptic Transistors

  2025cites this paper
• Lead-Free Cs3Bi2I9 Perovskite Memristors for Energy-Efficient Neuromorphic Computing

  2025cites this paper
• A Neuromorphic Transformer Architecture Enabling Hardware-Friendly Edge Computing

  2025cites this paper
• Fully solution-processed ferroelectric thin film transistor based on PZT and its application in neuromorphic computing

  2025cites this paper
• Resistive Switching Random-Access Memory (RRAM): Applications and Requirements for Memory and Computing

  2025cites this paper
• All-optical logical gates AND, OR, NOT, XNOR and XOR based on metalenses at 1.55 µm

  2025cites this paper
• Improved all photonics diffraction neural network based on multi-channel integrated optical fibers

  2025cites this paper
• Near-Sensor Edge Computing System Enabled by a CMOS Compatible Photonic Integrated Circuit Platform Using Bilayer AlN/Si Waveguides

  2025cites this paper
• Emergent functions of noise-driven spontaneous activity: homeostatic maintenance of criticality and memory consolidation

  2025cites this paper