Michael J. Nelson

Michael J. Nelson is a Professor of Political Science and Department Head at Penn State’s College of the Liberal Arts. He serves as Affiliate Faculty at Penn State Law and directs the Initiative on Legal Institutions and Democracy (ILIAD). His expertise spans American politics, judicial politics, and state politics, with a focus on judicial legitimacy, public support for courts, and the effects of institutional design on legal outcomes. Nelson has authored multiple award-winning books, including The Elevator Effect and Judging Inequality, and his research has been funded by the National Science Foundation and Russell Sage Foundation.

Education:

• Ph.D. Political Science, Washington University in St. Louis (2014)
• A.M. Political Science, Washington University in St. Louis (2011)
• B.A. Politics and English, Drake University (2009)

Research Interests: Nelson’s work examines judicial elections, public perceptions of courts, and the role of legal institutions in addressing inequality and democratic challenges. He employs mixed-methods approaches, including observational studies, experimental designs, and textual analysis.

Grants & Awards:

• 2024 APSA Law and Courts Section’s C. Herman Pritchett Award
• 2022 Virginia Gray Award (State Politics and Policy Section)
• National Science Foundation grants totaling over $750,000

Advising & Service: Nelson has mentored over 20 Ph.D., MA, and undergraduate students. His service roles include President of the APSA State Politics and Policy Section and leadership in professional organizations like the American Mock Trial Association.

Labs/Initiatives: Leads the ILIAD, which focuses on legal institutions and democratic resilience. Collaborates on projects such as the U.S. Supreme Court Database and the Civic Health and Institutions Project (CHIP50).