Dr. Philip Nelson

Professor

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Biography

Philip Nelson is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pennsylvania, holding this position since 1998. His academic career began in 1987 when he served as an Assistant Professor at Boston University, before joining the University of Pennsylvania as an Assistant Professor. He became an Associate Professor in 1992 and then a full Professor in 1998. He has been recognized for his contributions to teaching and research in biological/living matter physics, receiving several honors including the Lindback Award for teaching excellence and the Dennis M. Deturck Award for innovation in teaching. He is also a Fellow of the American Physical Society, noted for his work on soft biomaterials and using geometrical topological methods in physics. His research interests encompass various aspects of physics, particularly in the realm of biological systems and materials. Nelson’s teaching includes advanced courses that integrate physical models with biological systems and electromagnetic phenomena.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1998-01-01 — Present

University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

Leading research and teaching in the areas of biological physics.

Associate Professor

1992-01-01 — 1998-01-01

University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

Conducted research and taught courses in physics.

Assistant Professor

1988-01-01 — 1992-01-01

University of Pennsylvania • Philadelphia, PA

Engaged in teaching and research.

Assistant Professor

1987-01-01 — 1988-01-01

Boston University • Boston, MA

Performed teaching and research duties.

Awards

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Lindback Award

2025-01-01
#

Dennis M. Deturck Award

2018-01-01
#

Emily Gray Award

2009-01-01
#

Fellow

2003-01-01
#

Ira Abrams Memorial Award

2001-01-01
#

National Science Foundation Presidential Young Investigator Award

1988-01-01
#

Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellow

1988-01-01
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Junior Fellow

1984-01-01

Courses

Phys 2280: Physical Models of Biological Systems Phys 5516: Electromagnetic Phenomena

Requirements for University of Pennsylvania

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.6
GRE General
Verbal
Required:162
Quantitative
Required:162
Overall
Required:162
GMAT
Total Score
Required:728
Overall
Required:728
TOEFL
Total
Required:115
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong quantitative background
Application Checklist
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Essays
Specialization Notes

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