Dr. Kenneth Nealson

Professor

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Biography

Kenneth Nealson is a Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern California specializing in Earth Sciences with a rich background in microbial physiology and genomics. He holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Chicago, where he also earned his B.S. in Biochemistry. With an extensive career that includes tenure at various prestigious institutions, including the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Scripps Institution of Oceanography, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of biogeochemical processes and microbial fuel cells. His research focuses particularly on the genus Shewanella, exploring its roles in metal reduction and electricity production. Nealson has directed research in various extreme environments on Earth to probe life's potential adaptations, as well as on Mars, directing efforts to detect past life and water. He has published numerous articles in renowned journals, reflecting his research interests in microbial physiology and ecology, astrobiology, and environmental microbiology.

Research Interests

Experience

Wrigley Professor Geobiology

2001-10-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Engaged in teaching and research in the field of geobiology.

Senior Scientist, Professor

1997-10-01 — 2001-10-01

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Caltech • Pasadena, CA

Conducted research in astrobiology, focusing on the search for extraterrestrial life.

Distinguished Professor

1985-10-01 — 1997-10-01

Center for Great Lakes Studies, University of Wisconsin • Milwaukee, WI

Oversaw research related to the ecology and microbiology of Great Lakes.

Professor

1973-10-01 — 1985-10-01

Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego • La Jolla, CA

Conducted research on oceanographic microbial processes.

Awards

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USC Raubenheimer Outstanding Senior Faculty Award

2016-11-15
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American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow

2013-12-03
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Fellow (or Equivalent) National Society Discipline

2012-01-01
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USC Endowed Chair, Wrigley Chair Environmental Studies

2016-08-16
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D.C. White Award for Excellence in Research Mentoring

2009-01-01
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Selman Waksman Outstanding Educator Award

2004-01-01
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Proctor & Gamble Medal for Environmental Microbiology

2003-05-01
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Distinguished Visiting Researcher Award

1996-01-01
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Fellow (or Equivalent) National Society Discipline

1994-01-01
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Guggenheim Fellowship Recipient

1982-01-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.