Physics Colloquium: Single skyrmion stochastic neuron using local dynamics and interaction between skyrmions

Dr. Kang Wang, Brown University

Abstract: Topologically stabilized magnetic swirls – so called skyrmions are of great interest due to their desirable features for use in post-von Neumann computing devices. Implementing skyrmionic devices experimentally requires functionalities of skyrmions with effective controls. Although various skyrmionic devices have been proposed based on the dynamic motion of skyrmions, little progress has been reported in the implementation of such devices owing to challenges in the precise control over skyrmion motion. In this talk, I will examine the local dynamics of a single skyrmion interacting with local pinning centers confining a skyrmion in a magnetic thin film. I will show that a single skyrmion behaves like a stochastic neuron and there exists a mutual coupling between multiple stochastic neurons. The local dynamics of a single skyrmion and the coupling strength between skyrmions can be controlled by using an applied magnetic field and a spin current. These properties of skyrmions can be taken advantage of in computing applications.

K. Wang et al, Nature Communications, 13, 722 (2022).