American Institute of Physics Recognizes Morgan State University Professor with 2025 Joseph A. Johnson Award of Excellence

Dr. Stacyann Nelson Honored for Pioneering Research in Hadronic Matter and Commitment to Mentorship

Morgan State University continues to strengthen its reputation for cutting-edge scientific research, propelled by the scholars behind its growing advancements. Among them is Stacyann Nelson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the School of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences’ (SCMNS) Department of Physics and Engineering Physics. Dr. Nelson was selected to receive the 2025 Joseph A. Johnson Award of Excellence, presented jointly by the American Institute of Physics (AIP) and the National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP). 

Dr. Nelson is recognized for her research examining gluon dynamics in gold nuclei to better understand the fundamental properties of hadronic matter at high energies. Her work provides valuable insights into how matter behaves at its limits and offers clues to the state of the universe just moments after the Big Bang. She is also celebrated for her deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of physics researchers. 

“Dr. Nelson’s research at Morgan State University can be used to understand the universe moments after its formation with the Big Bang,” said Michael Moloney, CEO of AIP. “She is an active role model, and she exemplifies how to ensure students have access and opportunity in the physical sciences.” 

The Joseph A. Johnson Award of Excellence, now in its sixth year, recognizes early-career experimental physicists who embody Johnson’s legacy of scientific innovation, mentorship and service. Johnson, a pioneering physicist and co-founder of NSBP, mentored numerous Black doctoral students and helped expand opportunities for African Americans in the field. The award includes a $5,000 honorarium and an invitation to deliver colloquia at partner universities. 

“I am honored to have been selected for this prestigious award that connects me to Dr. Johnson’s scientific contributions and his passion and commitment to nurturing future generations of physicists, especially within the African American community,” said Nelson. “This award is a reminder that success is not only our personal achievements, but also those we uplift along the way.”

In addition to her research and teaching, Nelson is an active member of the NSBP Program Committee and holds memberships in the American Physical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers, both AIP Member Societies. Beyond her scholarly contributions, she is deeply engaged in mentorship, serving as the advisor for Morgan’s Society of Physics Students chapter.

“NSBP congratulates Dr. Nelson on this award for her excellence in experimental nuclear physics research as well as her impactful mentorship efforts at Morgan State and within the larger physics community,” said Stephen Roberson, president of NSBP, which was founded at Morgan State University in 1977. “Every year, NSBP is proud to celebrate early-career physicists and their achievements in research and mentorship.” 

Nelson credits her earliest lessons in resilience, dedication and service to her mother, who raised her as a single parent. “The quiet strength and determination of my mother, particularly in putting my education above all, has inspired me to always do my best and to help others in whatever way I possibly can,” she said.

Her commitment to mentorship began early, when she tutored classmates in reading while growing up in Jamaica and helped students prepare for the Caribbean Examination Council high school exams by welcoming them into her home as a study space. As a professor, she continues to instill confidence in her students—encouraging academic excellence, independence and a strong sense of community.

“My goal is to help students become more confident, independent, and active members of our academic community while emphasizing academic growth and personal development,” Nelson said.

Congratulations to Dr. Stacyann Nelson on achieving this distinguished honor!