Song Named 2026 Paul Baran Young Scholar by Marconi Society
Yiwen Song, a postdoctoral associate in electrical and computer engineering, has been named a 2026 Paul Baran Young Scholar by the Marconi Society. The prestigious award recognizes outstanding early-career researchers whose innovative work is helping shape the future of information and communications technology.
Currently conducting research in the WiTech Lab, Song focuses on designing and evaluating new wireless systems, with applications spanning wireless communication, sensing, power transfer, and novel wireless hardware. Advised by Swarun Kumar, professor of electrical and computer engineering, and nominated by Larry Pileggi, the Coraluppi Head and Tanoto Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, he works towards deep integration of wireless and robotic systems, where he has advanced the research of radio-frequency actuation of soft robots and robotic integration of wireless devices.
“The 2026 Young Scholars exemplify the curiosity and drive that move our field forward,” said John Janowiak, President and CEO of the Marconi Society. “Each of them is tackling problems that matter — from the way we hear, to the way we sense and communicate wirelessly, to the systems that will define the next generation of connectivity. We are proud to celebrate their contributions and look forward to watching their impact grow.”
The 2026 Paul Baran Young Scholars will present their research at the cross-sector Institute Forums on Friday, November 6, 2026, before being recognized that evening at the Marconi Awards Gala at the Fairmont San Francisco, California.