In 1964 Nelson joined the faculty at Penn State as an associate professor, where he would devote the next 30 years of his academic career. Only three years into his tenure, he founded the Biomechanics Laboratory, which soon garnered international prestige. The unique interdisciplinary program drew students from around the world, and in 1973 the International Society of Biomechanics was founded at Penn State to provide an institutional support for ongoing research. Nelson served as president of the society from 1975 to 1980.
Among the many technological innovations that emerged under Nelson’s leadership was a system for the National Hockey League that measured strength of shot. As an Olympics enthusiast, Nelson also developed research for a variety of winter and summer Olympic sporting events. The information gleaned from these efforts was made available to coaches and trainers through publications in international journals, such as the International Journal of Sports Biomechanics (later renamed the Journal of Applied Biomechanics), which was founded by Nelson in 1985.
“Dick Nelson's outstanding and innovative contributions to the field of biomechanics have played a significant role in the success of our department,” said Nancy Williams, head of the Department of Kinesiology and professor of kinesiology and physiology. ”He is truly a giant on whose shoulders we stand, as our faculty and many graduate trainees continue to benefit from, and carry on, the strong reputation of biomechanics at Penn State. His legacy will be honored for years to come.”