Nick McKeown wins 2025 Marconi Prize for SDN innovations
Professor Nick McKeown has been awarded the 2025 Marconi Prize for his work in software-defined networking (SDN) and advancements in high-performance switches and routers. McKeown's contributions are recognised as having shaped the foundational architecture of modern global networks.
Career impact
McKeown, who grew up in Bedford and Chelmsford, has played a significant role in computer science and network engineering. His research and industry collaborations have influenced how networks are structured and managed, supporting developments in cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
His early career included an apprenticeship at the Marconi Research Labs in Chelmsford. He went on to leadership positions at Stanford and Cambridge, where he drove further innovation in networking technologies. His efforts in establishing SDN have enabled more flexible and scalable network management, a key requirement for today's data-driven enterprises.
Societal responsibility
McKeown spoke about the ethical responsibilities associated with technological change.
"As the people behind an enormous societal shift in power to technology, we owe it to the world to do better," said Nick McKeown, Professor, Stanford University.
He revealed that he will donate his Marconi Prize award funds to create an initiative under the Marconi Society, aimed at convening technologists, ethicists, and philosophers. The initiative seeks to expand the global discussion about the impact of emerging technologies on society.
Recognition of pioneers
The Marconi Society also granted its Lifetime Achievement Award to Martin Cooper, noted for his role in developing the handheld mobile phone. John Janowiak, President and CEO of the Marconi Society, said, "Martin Cooper's legacy is woven into the fabric of modern life. His impact on humanity is immeasurable, and we are proud to celebrate him."
Emerging talent
This year's Marconi Young Scholars were also recognised for their contributions. The award highlights researchers whose work demonstrates strong technical ability and potential for future influence. The 2025 recipients are Ruth Gebremedhin of NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Thomas Micallef of Polytechnique Montréal and TandemLaunch Ventures, Yidong Ren of Michigan State University and Qualcomm, and Raghav Subbaraman of UC San Diego and Apple. Each was invited to present their research at the Academic Forum held at UCLA Samueli School of Engineering.
