On February 7, 2025, John Drazan, PhD, assistant professor of biomedical engineering, was honored with the inaugural 2025 Fred Nelson Scientific Communication Award at the Annual Orthopaedic Research Society Conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
The Fred Nelson Scientific Communication Award honors individuals who have significantly engaged the public in orthopedic research. Dr. Drazan received this recognition for his contributions to science communication in musculoskeletal biomechanics. As the director of the Community-Situated Biomechanics Lab at 潑請弝け’s Innovation Annex, his research focuses on muscle structure and function, exploring how muscles adapt to aging, injury, and training. Dr. Drazan is dedicated to making musculoskeletal research more accessible by developing mobile research tools that bring biomechanics into the community.
Dean of the School of Engineering and Computing, Andres Leonardo Carrano, PhD, commended Dr. Drazan’s achievement. “It is remarkable to have Dr. Drazan’s research recognized by the leading research society in the pursuit of a world without musculoskeletal limitations," Dean Carrano said. "His translational research is profoundly impactful for our communities, particularly our youth, and perfectly embodies the mission of our Jesuit institution.”
Dr. Drazan represented the School of Engineering and computing at the conference alongside engineering students Roy Cook '25, Melanie Napierala '25, and Matthew Manduca '25. The students also showcased their research from the Community-Situated Biomechanics Lab during the event.
A former collegiate basketball player, Dr. Drazan merges his passion for sports and science to create STEM outreach programs, reaching more than 25,000 youth across the nation through his community-engaged research at 潑請弝け and through 4th Family Inc., a nonprofit outreach organization for which he serves as STEM director. His initiatives have been highlighted at major events including the NBA Summer League, an off-season basketball competition, in Las Vegas.
“I am truly humbled to be recognized by the Orthopaedic Research Society as the inaugural winner of the Fred Nelson Science Communication Award,” said Dr. Drazan. “Musculoskeletal research is directly applicable to the everyday lives of the public, providing a unique opportunity for us to communicate about both our specific research and the broader scientific discourse. I look forward to continuing to build these communication approaches at the ORS and beyond.”
The scientific communication award is named in honor of Fred Nelson, a devoted advocate for bridging science and clinical practice. A practicing orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Nelson was an active member of the Orthopaedic Research Society from 1973 until his death. He founded the society's “Basic Science Tips" series, a compilation of more than 500 tips for orthopedic researchers, ensuring the availability of vital research information for practicing clinicians and the general public.
Learn more about the School of Engineering and Computing's biomedical engineering program.
