Queen's Professor awarded prestigious Parsons Medal
Queen’s Professor Vincent Fusco, from the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, has been awarded the prestigious Parsons Medal by the Irish Academy of Engineering (IAE).
The Parsons Medal is presented to an engineer who has made an outstanding contribution to the practice of engineering on the island of Ireland, resulting in significant social or economic impact.
The award honours the legacy of Sir Charles Algernon Parsons, the inventor of the steam turbine, which powered ships including the HMS Caroline.
Fittingly, the Award was held during the Birr Engineering STEAM Heritage Festival at Birr Castle Demesne on 16 October, and was presented to Professor Fusco by Lady Alicia Parsons, a descendant of the Earl of Rosse, Sir Brendan Parsons.
Professor Fusco is a leading expert in wireless engineering, renowned for his innovative and collaborative work. His groundbreaking research has driven advances in cellular and satellite communications, as well as microwave and sub-millimetre wave technologies. His invaluable work has had a significant impact on both industry and academia, advancing sophisticated radio technologies in Ireland and around the world.
Among Professor Fusco’s numerous honours are Fellowships of the Irish Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society, and the Royal Academy of Engineering, along with the IET Mountbatten Medal and the Royal Irish Academy’s Gold Medal for Engineering Science.
Reflecting on the honour, Professor Fusco said:
“The Irish Academy of Engineering provides independent advice to policy makers on issues related to engineering and technology. I am honoured to be the recipient of the 2025 Irish Academy of Engineering’s Parsons medal and would like to thank the Academy for selecting me.
"It is an honour to receive this recognition for engineering achievement. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to have collaborated with inspirational colleagues and students on many problems in the field of wireless communication that are of relevance to today’s world, where the ability to connect wirelessly is a key social and economic driver.”
Sean Finlay, President, the Irish Academy of Engineering, commented:
“Ireland has for over 150 years been significant to the growth of global data communications. First, through its undersea transatlantic cables, led by Lord Kelvin in 1858, followed by Marconi’s wireless transmissions of the world’s first commercial radio signal from Rathlin Island to Ballycastle in 1898 and subsequently the world’s first live sports event being wirelessly streamed from the Kingstown Regatta in Dublin Bay. Today, wireless is a global business offering mobile users much flexibility.
“Vincent has made an exceptional contribution to the practice of engineering nationally and internationally through the innovative application of engineering to advanced wireless technology.”
Queen’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Engineering and Physical Sciences, Professor Geert Dewulf, commented:
“We are delighted to see Professor Vincent Fusco recognised with the prestigious Parsons Medal. His groundbreaking contributions to wireless engineering have not only advanced research and innovation at Queen’s but have also had a profound impact on industry and society globally. This award is a testament to his dedication, expertise, and outstanding achievements in the field.”