MediaLab founder, Professor Michael Alcorn has been awarded the title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE):

"For services to Music, to Higher Education, and to the Creative Industries”.

After founding SARC: the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Sound and Music in 2004, Michael took on various leadership positions, including the setting up of the MediaLab at Queen’s University Belfast where he is currently Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Sustainability and Strategic Projects).

Michael Alcorn’s compositional interests lie at the intersection between instrumental, electroacoustic music and areas of new media creative practice. His music has been performed and broadcast in the UK, Europe, North and South America and the Far East and featured at leading new music festivals in Sweden, Finland, Germany, Poland and the US. He has received commissions from the BBC, The National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, the Nash Ensemble, Singcircle, the Smith Quartet, Darragh Morgan, the Irish Chamber Orchestra, Opera Theatre Company and the Ulster Orchestra.

The following colleagues have also been recognised in the 2026 New Year Honours:

• • Sally Bridge, for services to equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• • Professor Nigel Hart, for services to primary care, medical research and training. 

Queen’s University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said: 

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours 2026. 

“These Honours recognise the exceptional contributions and impact our colleagues and wider University family have made in their respective fields, creating lasting positive change. Their efforts continue to advance our mission to transform lives through education, research and innovation, and to address the critical challenges facing our society, reflecting the values that have defined Queen’s for 180 years.” 

Congratulations to all honourees.