Memory functions are key for computing and signal processing. Learning from how the brain works being able to write-retain-and reset a memory is key. And we do not want to consume any power while the memory is holding its information (‘memristive’). This key building block for many compute system including those running artificial intelligence systems and machine learning tasks. With a team of researchers, we recently demonstrated a photonic chip-based RAM (random access memory). The memory is programmed electronically using micro-heaters allowing for seamless chip integration while its information content is read optically at high speed.

The details are in Nature: Light Science, Applications.