Melissa Nolan, associate professor of epidemiology in the Arnold School of Public Health and director of USC’s Institute for Infectious Disease Translational Research, has received the 2026 South Carolina Governor's Young Scientist Award for Excellence in Scientific Research.
It honors her nationally recognized work to understand and prevent infectious diseases that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations while improving public health in South Carolina and around the world.
The South Carolina Academy of Science, which sponsors the award with the governor’s office, presented it to her at the Statehouse on Aug. 5.
“Growing up in a rural, disadvantaged town, I know the challenges some Americans may
face,” Nolan says. “My work seeks not only to push the boundaries of our scientific
and medical understanding, but to always bring those discoveries back to those most
in need.”
Her work focuses on communities that are often overlooked. Nearly 38 million Americans
live below the federal poverty line, which for a family of four means a household
income of about $33,000 per year or less.
“We want to make sure that this group is not forgotten and that cutting-edge medical knowledge is within reach for all South Carolinians and all Americans,” Nolan says.
An epidemiologist whose research spans Latin America and throughout the United States, Nolan studies vector-borne infectious diseases, maternal and child health and the environmental factors that drive disease transmission. She and her team have advanced new approaches for monitoring ticks and mosquitoes, predicting outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases, improving disease screening through telemedicine and investigating emerging public health threats ranging from West Nile virus to neglected parasitic infections.
Her work combines advanced data science with practical strategies to protect communities before outbreaks occur.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible people. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the talented trainees, staff and colleagues at USC,” Nolan says. “I hope this honor reflects the impact and value of infectious disease research.”
Beyond her scientific achievements, Nolan has become one of the Arnold School’s most trusted public voices on emerging infectious diseases. She translates complex scientific findings into clear, practical information that helps families, community leaders and policymakers make informed decisions.
“Dr. Nolan has built an innovative research program that combines scientific excellence with a deep commitment to improving public health,” says Daniela B. Friedman, the Arnold School of Public Health’s associate dean for research and leadership development. “Her work on infectious diseases has advanced our understanding of emerging health threats while ensuring that the findings inform public health practice. We are delighted to see her receive this honor.”
Wednesday’s ceremony also saw the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Research awarded to Susan Richardson, USC’s Arthur Sease Williams Professor of Chemistry.