Dr. Nelson Anthony Cox Jr., was an award-winning research microbiologist who spent his career helping to protect the safety of the nation's food supply. Dr. Cox spent over 50 years as a research microbiologist working with the USDA-Agricultural Research Service.

During his career, his brilliant mind, hard work, and scientific creativity resulted in remarkable productivity. He conducted an untold number of research projects, held 10 patents, authored well over one thousand peer-reviewed scientific publications and conference proceedings, and gave hundreds of scientific talks, both nationally and internationally. Dr. Cox's research was practical and provided useable information for the poultry industry to implement to improve food safety. His research findings have directly impacted public health.

His accolades include Distinguished Senior Agricultural Research Science Scientist of the Year, Fellow American Society for Microbiology, Fellow of Poultry Science Association and was one of a very few scientists ever inducted into both the Poultry Hall of Fame and the ARS Science Hall of Fame. He is regarded by colleagues, collaborators, industry, and friends as one of the greatest food safety microbiologists of his generation.

Dr. Cox cared deeply about mentoring students and supporting young scientists and he shared his vast knowledge unselfishly and unreservedly. He mentored generations of young scientists, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers.

When we heard the sad news that Nelson had advanced stage cancer, we were shocked and saddened, like many of you. He was thrilled when we suggested the idea of developing a student scholarship in his name and having his legacy live on through future generations of scientists. In Dr. Cox's honor, a student scholarship to support a graduate student in poultry food safety is being established. To achieve this goal, we are launching a campaign to establish an endowment fund through the USPOULTRY Foundation that can continue to support a student each year so that Dr. Cox's legacy in poultry food safety can continue to impact future generations.

If you have any questions, send us an email at nelsoncox.scholarship@gmail.com.

Thank you for considering a donation in Nelson's honor.

Mark Berrang | Melissa Landrum | John Meccia | Nikki Shariat | Jeanna Wilson