Professor Steve Blackburn from the Australian National University (ANU) Research School of Computer Science has been placed among the world’s best computer scientists, after being named a Fellow of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM).
In total, 53 ACM members were elevated to Fellow level in 2016, with Professor Blackburn being the only Australian researcher in the group. He received the title for his significant contributions to memory management in programming languages over the course of his career.
As the world’s largest educational and scientific computing society, the ACM Fellows Program celebrates the exceptional contributions of its leading members in the computing field.
“As nearly 100,000 computing professionals are members of our association, to be selected to join the top one per cent is truly an honour,” said ACM President Vicki L. Hanson.
“Fellows are chosen by their peers and hail from leading universities, corporations and research labs throughout the world. Their inspiration, insights and dedication bring immeasurable benefits that improve lives and help drive the global economy.”
Acting Dean of the ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science, Professor Thushara Abhayapala congratulated Professor Blackburn on his appointment.
“Steve is an outstanding ambassador for the Research School of Computer Science and ANU. Elevation to ACM Fellow is a peak career accomplishment, it is a prestigious honour and I’m delighted for Steve. He is truly deserving of this recognition.”
Professor Blackburn is delighted and humbled by the achievement.
“I am fortunate to have great collaborators, outstanding students, and a very supportive wife.”
ACM will formally recognise 2016 Fellows at its annual Awards Banquet to be held in San Francisco on June 24, 2017.