A memory cell that includes a first contact having a first surface and an opposing second surface; a second contact having a first surface and an opposing second surface; a memory material layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface; and a nanoporous layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the nanoporous layer including at least one nanopore and dielectric material, the at least one nanopore being substantially filled with a conductive metal, wherein a surface of the nanoporous layer is in contact with a surface of the first contact or the second contact and the second surface of the nanoporous layer is in contact with a surface of the memory material layer.