John Nelson

John Nelson has over 25 years’ experience working with science and technology programs at NASA and the Department of Defense. John has led award winning teams of professionals across a broad range of services including strategic planning, data management and analytics, technology assessment, portfolio management, performance management, and regulatory compliance. John currently serves as the Deputy Program Executive (DPE) for NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC), Center Innovation Fund, and Early Career Initiative within NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD). While John’s formal education is in life sciences and biomedical engineering, he has worked across various technical disciplines throughout his career. He has a particular passion for early stage concepts that challenge our notions of what is possible both in space and here on Earth.

Email: hq-niac@mail.nasa.gov