It’s nomination season at the Marconi Society for two prestigious Information and Communications Technology (ICT) awards:
These awards, given by nomination only, recognize the leaders whose innovative approach to communications technology will improve digital inclusion, inspire the next generation of scientists, and shape the future of the field.
In line with our vision of a world in which everyone has access to the opportunities of connectivity, the Marconi Prize is extending its focus on technical excellence and impact to include recognition for social and humanitarian applications, as well as an expanded focus on entrepreneurship. The award, sometimes called the “Nobel Prize of Communications,” has recognized 54 leading scientists who have built our connected world.
Vint Cerf, Marconi Fellow and Chairman of our Board, Andrea Goldsmith, Marconi Fellow and Chair of the Selection Advisory Committee, and Dina Katabi, member of the selection committee and director of the MIT Wireless Center, discussed the nomination process and judging criteria for the Marconi Prize last month. You can view the recorded webinar here, and we are sharing their top tips for creating a successful nomination for the Prize.
- Consider candidates from diverse geographies, communications technology disciplines, and demographics.
We actively seek nominations for candidates across the globe who represent the diversity of the field. Our outreach strategy has particularly prioritized geographic, ethnic/racial, and gender diversity. Additionally, we define Information and Communications Technology (ICT) broadly—past Marconi Fellows include those who have created vital communications companies, like Sergey Brin and Larry Page, founders of Google, and leaders in cybersecurity like Whitfield Diffie or Marty Hellman.
- Make sure that your nomination is strong in all evaluation areas, including technical contribution.
We recognize a unique set of contributions that are instrumental in our connected world. In addition to technical excellence, we are looking for candidates who demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit (who have either launched a product in the market, created a business, mentored entrepreneurs or have otherwise helped make their research or work impactful to the broader public) and who are invested in a digitally inclusive approach to technology.
- Honor a colleague who would value being part of the lifelong Marconi Society Fellowship.
We are looking for candidates who are excited to participate as engaged members of the Marconi Society community. The Marconi Prize represents an induction into the Marconi Society, a group of thoughtful and engaged technologists. Marconi Fellows are invited to take a leading role in advanced communications in service of digital inclusion through our community and programs. Engagement opportunities include our decadal survey of ICT, mentoring underrepresented students in STEM and participating in programs and events..
- Nominate a candidate that you know well.
While a high-profile nominator may seem like the most strategic choice, we’ve found that the most compelling nominations come from people who know and understand the candidate. Since the award criteria reach beyond technical excellence, a nominator should be able to create a strong case for the candidate’s entrepreneurial qualities and their humanitarian commitment—two things that may not be obvious from their research publications alone.
- Allocate time to prepare a successful nomination.
While nominators have until June 1 to finalize their submissions, we recommend you start sooner rather than later. From the letters of recommendation to the nominator questions, a successful submission requires time and care. Do you have questions about the nomination process? Email info@marconisociety.org and we’ll help you navigate.
