The work of a Lancaster University computer scientist has been recognised by a prestigious medal from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Steve Hodges, Distinguished Professor in Computing and Digital Systems, was awarded one of the IET’s most significant awards – the Mountbatten Medal – as part of the IET Achievement Awards at a special ceremony in London on Friday, October 17.

The medal was awarded to Professor Hodges for his work developing and promoting opportunities for children to engage with technology through physical computing, and in particular for his on-going contributions to the design and delivery of a popular digital device called the BBC micro:bit.

Eleven million micro:bits have helped educate an estimated sixty-six million students in eighty-five countries about technology and computing. Every second, someone somewhere starts coding a micro:bit program.

Before joining Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications, Professor Hodges spent 25 years working in industry research labs including at Microsoft. His work spans topics in engineering and computer science that range from mobile and ubiquitous computing to assistive technologies and connected devices. He has been granted 135 patents and his research publications have resulted in six lasting impact “test-of-time” awards. He is also a passionate proponent and communicator of all things tech.

At Lancaster he works closely with colleagues including Dr Elisa Rubegni, Dr Lorraine Underwood and Professor Joe Finney, continuing to explore new approaches to physical computing such as Jacdac and MicroCode.

“It’s a privilege having the opportunity to take my childhood fascination with electronics and computers full-circle, helping to develop digital systems that are inspiring and empowering millions of today’s children to get hands-on with technology,” he said. “I am deeply honoured by the IET’s recognition of this impact and grateful to all the talented colleagues and collaborators who made it possible.

“I’m particularly grateful to my colleagues at Lancaster University and Microsoft for their unwavering commitment to physical computing, and to everyone at the Micro:bit Educational Foundation who continue to drive physical computing impact around the world.”

The IET Achievement Awards recognise individuals from all over the world who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of engineering, technology and science in any sector. This can be through research and development in their respective technical field or through their leadership of an enterprise.

IET President Dawn Ohlson said: “We’re proud to celebrate these outstanding individuals and their impact with our Achievement Awards. Each has demonstrated excellence in their field and made significant contributions as trailblazers to the sector. From our distinguished medallists to our exceptional apprentice and technician winners, their accomplishments reflect the very best of our profession and they are remarkable role models for the next generation.”

First awarded in 1992, the Mountbatten Medal is awarded annually for an outstanding contribution, or contributions over a period, to the promotion of electronics or information technology and their application. Previous recipients include Tim Berners-Lee, creator of the world-wide web.

More information on the Mountbatten Medal is available here.

Children programming with micro:bits. Credit Microsoft