Young Technologist 2010
Introduction
The Royal Television Society Technology Award is presented to a young television engineer. This Award was established by the RTS with funds received from the family of A.M. Beresford-Cooke, who was a distinguished engineer who contributed much to the development of British broadcasting technology through his work on towers and masts for VHF and UHF transmition.
2010 Award
The Royal Television Society (RTS) has announced the winner of its annual RTS Young Technologist Award, which is presented in memory of A.M. Beresford-Cooke. Anthony Churnside, who is a member of BBC R&D team in Manchester, was chosen to receive the award by a panel of judges chaired by Terry Marsh, Executive Director of WISE (Women Into Science, Engineering and Construction).
The award was set up with the aim of advancing the science, practice, technology and art of television, giving the winner the opportunity to attend the International Broadcasting Conference (IBC) in September. Judges look for a winner who they feel will be able to enhance their understanding of broadcasting technology at the Conference and also share the knowledge gained with others.
The judging panel included Dr Agnes Segal, Head of Membership Services, The IET; Dr Martin Thomas, Head of Regions, EngineeringUK and Peter Weitzel, until recently Principal Technology Manager Media Systems, Siemens. The jury was impressed with Anthony’s career to date, particularly his work in ambisonics, creating 3D audio mixes and his most recent work on accessibility for the disabled to massive media libraries.
Terry Marsh, Chair of the RTS Young Technologist Award jury. says: “Television is thriving on new technologies, and Anthony’s plan to make the most of a visit to IBC to incorporate these into solving specific production issues was well thought through. Bright young technologists like Anthony are vital to the future of broadcasting.”
Anthony Churnside, winner of the RTS Young Technologist Award 2010 says:
“I'm thrilled to be awarded RTS Young Technologist 2010. Attending IBC is a fantastic way to begin my third year in the broadcasting industry. I am particularly interested in new ways of enhancing the audience's experience, using technology to make it appear more magical. Attending IBC will provide me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of these areas and at the same time extend my awareness of the wider broadcasting environment."
A.M. Beresford-Cooke, in whose memory the award is presented, was a distinguished engineer who made a substantial contribution to British broadcasting technology, helping to pioneer VHF and UHF transmition. The runner up prize, the Coffey Award for Excellence in Technology, is to be presented to Steve Lee, who runs his own company, Jelly Technologies.