April Nelsen

April Nelsen is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator in the Department of Allied and Population Health at South Dakota State University (SDSU). She holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (2022) and M.S. in Microbiology (2015) from SDSU, alongside a B.S. in Infectious Disease Microbiology and Clinical Laboratory Science (2009). Her academic roles include teaching courses in Immunology, Clinical Chemistry, and Advanced Medical Diagnostics, while overseeing clinical education for medical laboratory science students.

• Education:
• Ph.D. Biological Sciences, SDSU, 2022
• M.S. Microbiology, SDSU, 2015
• B.S. Infectious Disease Microbiology & Clinical Laboratory Science, SDSU, 2009
• Research Interests:
• Clinical microbiology with a focus on molecular diagnostics
• Emerging zoonotic pathogens in veterinary medicine
• Development of diagnostic tools for respiratory diseases in livestock
• Awards:
• 2023 ASCLS National Oral Presentation Award for bovine astrovirus research
• 2023 Keys to the Future and Voices Under 40 Awards
• Leadership:
• ASCLS-SD President
• MLS Admissions Chair and MLS Conduct Committee