Contact: Taia Pandolfi, Marketing & Communications Manager
October 20, 2021—The Marconi Society today announced its 2021 Paul Baran Young Scholar, Dr. Shuowen Zhang, recognized for her work in intelligent reflecting surface-aided communications, MIMO, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications. The Young Scholar Award recognizes emerging technologists whose innovative scientific achievements, leadership and entrepreneurial characteristics, and dedication to improving society through their work stand out among their peers.
“Shuowen’s impressive technical research, which focuses on areas that are essential to the continued development and practical implementation of communications technology, and her passion for digital inclusion exemplify the spirit of the Young Scholar Award,” says Samantha Schartman-Cycyk, Executive Director of the Marconi Society. “We are thrilled to welcome her to the Marconi Society.”
Zhang serves as a Research Assistant Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Her research focuses on applying advanced signal processing and optimization techniques to solve practical design problems within connected technologies.
Zhang’s algorithm to address safety concerns of UAVs (commonly referred to as drones), published in IEEE Transactions on Communications, is expected to open new research avenues for UAV technology and its applications. Her research into intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS), a technology that can reconfigure wireless environments to improve the efficiency and breadth of signal coverage, may shape the future of connectivity by increasing access to reliable, affordable Internet services in hard-to-reach areas.
In addition to her technical contributions, Zhang is a mentor and thoughtful collaborator with her peers. During her PhD program, she mentored junior students on how to break down complex communications theory problems and prepare research for publication. As a Research Assistant Professor with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, she worked closely with students whose home Internet access made attending virtual classes during the pandemic very challenging. This experience, she says, solidified the importance of addressing the digital divide, even in cities that have high rates of connectivity. She currently serves as the mentorship co-chair for the IEEE’s N2Women, a networking group for women in communications technology.
The Marconi Society will celebrate Zhang, as well as 2020 Young Scholars Yasaman Ghasempour, Vikram Iyer, and Piotr Roztocki, and 2020 Marconi Fellow Andrea Goldsmith, during its annual Symposium and Gala on October 22. Tickets for this virtual event are available on the organization’s website.
About the Paul Baran Young Scholar Award
Named for 1991 Marconi Fellow Paul Baran, the Young Scholar Award launched in 2008 and recognizes emerging leaders in advanced communications technology who demonstrate scientific excellence, leadership, entrepreneurship, and a socially engaged approach to their work.
About the Marconi Society
The Marconi Society envisions a world in which everyone can create opportunity through the benefits of connectivity. The organization celebrates, inspires, and connects individuals building tomorrow’s technologies in service of a digitally inclusive world.
