Dr. Erik Nelson

Professor

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Biography

Erik Nelson is a Professor of Molecular and Integrative Physiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of cholesterol metabolism and its relation to cancer. His lab focuses on the translation of research findings into potential therapeutic strategies for breast and ovarian cancer. Nelson's research illuminates the roles of the endocrine system in metabolic control and the progression of cancer, particularly in patients with metastatic breast and ovarian cancers who have a poor prognosis. His studies emphasize the importance of cholesterol metabolism in tumor biology and immune cell dynamics within the tumor microenvironment. With a background that includes a B.Sc. and Ph.D. from the University of Calgary and postdoctoral work at Duke University, he has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Dean’s Distinguished Professorial Scholar and the Outstanding Early Career Investigator Laureate Award from the Endocrine Society.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2014-08-01 — Present

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign • Urbana, IL

Continuing research in the fields of endocrinology and metabolic control in cancer.

Awards

#2025

Dean’s Distinguished Professorial Scholar

#2025

Richard E. Weitzman Outstanding Early Career Investigator Laureate Award

#2023

Emerging Research Leader

#2022

James E. Maxine S. Heath Award for Excellence in Teaching

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.