Neural Exploration & Research Lab (NERL)

The SNL NERL facility enables researchers to explore the boundaries of neural computation. The research conducted in the lab evaluates what is possible with neural hardware and software for national security benefit and the advancement of basic research.

Current areas of NERL research include:

• Machine Learning and Deep Learning

• Microelectronics Co-Design

• Neural Computing and Applications to High Performance Computing (HPC)

• Computational and Mathematical Neuroscience

• Remote Sensing

• Edge Sensing and Processing

NERL includes a variety of neuromorphic hardware platforms that can be used for comparative benchmarking and architecture exploration. This neuromorphic research capability has enabled relationships with various academic institutions and industry partners that are designing and fabricating neuromorphic computing hardware.

NERL hardware includes:

• SpiNNaker

• Intel Loihi

To test new hardware, NERL relies on a suite of neural “mini apps” that assist researchers in understanding, predicting, and improving neuromorphic computing technologies. These Sandia-developed programs include neuromorphic random walks, neural sparse coding, and neural graph analysis.

Project Website

  • Vineyard, Craig, cmviney@sandia.gov