CAREER: Reimagining Superconducting Logic Systems with Emerging Devices

Energy efficiency and scalability are emerging as fundamental constraints for advanced computing systems such as artificial intelligence infrastructure and quantum computing platforms. Many quantum technologies already operate at cryogenic temperatures, creating a growing need for digital logic that can function reliably and efficiently in these environments. Superconducting electronics provide a promising foundation for such systems, yet existing superconducting logic approaches have remained difficult to scale into flexible, general-purpose digital architectures. This project addresses that challenge by developing a voltage-controlled superconducting logic framework designed for modular construction, reliable signal cascading, and compatibility with modern digital design methodologies. By bridging emerging superconducting device concepts with practical circuit implementation, the project seeks to enable scalable cryogenic computing technologies. In parallel, the project integrates research and education through a structured pathway that spans early high school exposure, undergraduate training, and graduate research. These activities include hands-on modules, research-integrated coursework, and openly accessible digital resources designed to expand participation in extreme electronics and strengthen the microelectronics workforce. The technical vision centers on a hybrid superconducting logic platform that integrates ferroelectric-superconducting quantum interference devices (FeSQUIDs) and heater cryotrons (hTrons). In this framework, FeSQUIDs enable voltage-controlled modulation of superconducting critical current, while hTrons provide amplification and output restoration needed for robust digital operation. The research pursues three connected thrusts. First, it investigates material and device physics in both conventional superconductors and compositionally complex superconducting alloys to understand how material composition and ferroelectric effects influence switching behavior and controllability. Second, it develops semi-physical compact models suitable for circuit simulation and implementation within established modeling frameworks, enabling systematic device-to-circuit translation and supporting compatibility with automation-oriented design practices. Third, it designs, simulates, and benchmarks voltage-controlled Boolean logic gates and multi-stage circuits to evaluate scalability. Quantitative success will be assessed using clearly defined performance criteria at the circuit and system levels, including: (i) stable rail-to-rail voltage swing suitable for reliable multi-stage cascading, (ii) switching speed and energy dissipation measured consistently across benchmark circuits, and (iii) robustness to realistic variability as reflected in model-informed variation analysis. The education plan complements the research by delivering scaffolded learning experiences and measurable dissemination outcomes, including multilingual digital content with tracked engagement and adoption. By unifying device physics, compact modeling, and benchmarked circuit design within a multi-level co-design framework, this project establishes the foundation for scalable superconducting digital logic platforms for future cryogenic computing systems. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. NSF Award ID: 2542224 | Program: 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT | Principal Investigator: Ahmedullah Aziz | Institution: University of Tennessee Knoxville, KNOXVILLE, TN | Award Amount: $550,000 View on NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/show-award/?AWD_ID=2542224 View on Research.gov: https://www.research.gov/awardapi-service/v1/awards/2542224.html