A single transistor that behaves like a brain cell in the deep freeze could help unlock the next generation of quantum computers and space exploration systems. Researchers at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) have developed a new type of brain-inspired electronic hardware that can operate at temperatures close to absolute zero. The breakthrough could help address one of the biggest challenges facing quantum computing while also opening new possibilities for future deep-space missions. The work was carried out by scientists from HKU’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering and the Centre for Advanced Semiconductors and Integrated Circuits (CASIC). Their newly developed programmable neuromorphic platform functions in extremely cold environments and could provide a practical way to improve the scalability of quantum computers. Brain-Inspired Computing at Near Absolute Zero The research team, led by Professor Yuhao Zhang and PhD student Xin Yang, found a new method for creating and controlling negative differential resistance (NDR) in industry-standard Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs. Using this approach, they demonstrated for the first time that a single transistor can reproduce the energy-efficient “spiking” activity seen in biological neurons at temperatures as low as 10 mK. This achievement is significant because quantum computers operate under extremely cold conditions. Their qubits are highly sensitive and must be maintained at millikelvin temperatures. However, the electronic systems used to control those qubits typically consume substantial power and generate heat. As a result, today’s silicon-based controllers must be positioned farther away from the qubits, creating a complex web of wiring that limits system performance and makes it more difficult to build larger quantum computers. “Our work introduces a hardware platform that can be integrated alongside quantum processors,” said Professor Zhang. “By using the unique carrier dynamics in silicon carbide, we can create circuits that are