Brains and Machines
Dr Sunny Bains
Curious to explore the technology advancing Artificial Intelligence beyond the usual headlines? Brains and Machines will introduce you to the people and ideas behind neuromorphic engineering, bio-inspired robotics, and other transformative technologies shaping AI’s future. From spiking neural networks and event-cameras to models of attention and mechanisms for prosthetic control, we investigate how machine cognition is moving forward.Join Dr Sunny Bains, a scientist, journalist, and lecturer at University College London, as she talks to researchers, engineers, and computer scientists from across the field. With co-host, Dr Giulia D’Angelo from the Czech Technical University in Prague, and commentator Prof Ralph Etienne-Cummings from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, the post-interview discussion provides context and insight into the featured innovations.Produced in conjunction with Electronic Engineering Times. Check out the EETimes Current podcast for more.Dr D’Angelo gratefully acknowledges the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 25, 2023 • 37min
Understanding Real Brains with Robotic Rats, and Vice Versa
In this insightful discussion, Mitra Hartmann, a Professor of Biomedical and Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern University, shares her expertise on modeling the sensory systems of rats to enhance our understanding of both brains and robotic technology. The conversation dives into the mechanics of rat whiskers and their sensory-motor roles, revealing how innovative simulations inform robotic designs. Hartmann also highlights the interplay between biology and robotics, showcasing how bio-inspired engineering can revolutionize our approach to neuroscience.
Sep 11, 2023 • 42min
On-Chip Learning is Missing Neuromorphic Building Block
Elisabetta Chicca, head of the bio-inspired Circuits and Systems research group at the University of Groningen, discusses pioneering work in neural chips with memristors. She highlights the challenges of on-chip learning for spiking systems and the necessity for biologically plausible algorithms. The conversation explores the shift from 2D to 3D integration, enhancing robotic functions. Chicca also touches on the ethical implications of creating brain-like structures and the ambitious potential of neuromorphic systems to revolutionize energy efficiency in artificial intelligence.
Sep 1, 2023 • 46min
André van Schaik Discusses New Neuromorphic Simulator
In this engaging discussion, André van Schaik, a neuromorphic engineering expert and director at Western Sydney University, shares insights into the evolution of neuromorphic systems since the 90s. He explores groundbreaking projects using event-based cameras for satellite tracking and the innovative 'Deep South' FPGA-based simulator designed for spiking neural networks. The conversation reveals the challenges of simulating brain functionality and highlights the exciting future of neuromorphic technology in vision systems and computing.
