He received his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology (2009). Prior to his appointment at UAH he was an Assistant Research Professor at the University of Connecticut (2009–2012). Professor Nelson specializes in multiscale modeling and microstructural imaging using X-ray and neutron techniques. His research focuses on understanding the interaction between microstructure, macroscopic device geometry, and key transport phenomena in energy conversion and storage devices. Professor Nelson is a recipient of an Oak Ridge Associated Universities Ralph E. Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Award (2013) and a National Science Foundation CAREER Award (2015).