Steven Swanson

Steven Swanson is a Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of California, San Diego, within the Jacobs School of Engineering. He is the Director of the Non-Volatile Systems Laboratory (NVSL), where he leads cutting-edge research in non-volatile memory, storage systems, and hardware-software co-design. His work bridges computer architecture, systems, and software to develop efficient, reliable, and secure computing platforms.

• Ph.D., University of Washington, 2006
• B.S., University of Puget Sound, 1999

Dr. Swanson's research centers on non-volatile and persistent memory systems, exploring how next-generation storage technologies can transform computing. His lab develops full-stack solutions including file systems like NOVA and Orion, programming models such as NV-Heaps, and hardware prototypes like Moneta and Onyx. The team also works on low-power co-processors (e.g., GreenDroid) and tools for debugging and verifying persistent memory programs. Research spans system reliability, security, energy efficiency, and performance optimization.

His recent publications reveal a strong focus on persistent memory safety, zero-copy I/O, RDMA-based distributed file systems, and real-world characterization of Intel Optane. These works appear in top venues including ASPLOS, FAST, MICRO, and USENIX ATC, demonstrating sustained innovation in storage and systems research.

Scientific honors include:

• NSF CAREER Award
• Google Faculty Award
• Facebook Faculty Award
• NetApp Faculty Fellow

Dr. Swanson has advised 15 PhD students and 4 postdocs, many now faculty or senior engineers at Google, Microsoft, Intel, and other leading tech firms. He has secured significant research funding and leads major community initiatives such as the annual Non-Volatile Memories Workshop and Persistent Programming In Real Life (PIRL). His educational efforts include innovative courses on robotic system design, quadcopter building, and modern storage systems, emphasizing hands-on learning and real-world implementation.

The Non-Volatile Systems Laboratory (NVSL) under his leadership fosters a collaborative, international research environment, hosting visitors and postdocs from around the world. The lab is recognized globally as a pioneer in storage systems research and a key contributor to the adoption of persistent memory technologies in industry.