Resa Nelson Makes History as Hofstra University’s First Rhodes Scholar

The Journey of a Caribbean Biology Pioneer

Resa Nelson has become Hofstra University’s first Rhodes Scholar for her work to transform seaweed from her native Antigua into sustainable biofuel. At just 21 years old, this accomplished biology major from the Class of 2026 has achieved what no Hofstra student has accomplished before, marking a transformative moment not only for the university but also for her home nation. She was selected from among nine finalists, becoming just the second Rhodes Scholar from Antigua.

The Rhodes Scholarship represents one of academia’s most prestigious international awards. Established in 1903, the Rhodes Trust awards recipients with two years of postgraduate study at the University of Oxford in the U.K., with a total of 106 Rhodes awards being offered this year to young scholars from 25 constituencies around the globe. Selection criteria emphasize academic excellence, moral character, and dedication to service—qualities Nelson exemplifies in every facet of her life.

Nelson’s path to becoming a Rhodes Scholar began with a significant pivot. Originally enrolling at Hofstra with aspirations of attending medical school, she discovered her true calling in the laboratory. Nelson originally came to Hofstra with the intention of going to medical school and becoming a doctor, but she says her plans changed once she started doing research. “I realized I loved the act of discovery, the process of asking questions, and finding answers,” Nelson explained, capturing the moment her trajectory shifted toward scientific research.

Her research focus centers on addressing real-world sustainability challenges in her native Caribbean region. Working under the mentorship of Dr. Javier Izquierdo, a Hofstra biology professor, Nelson has explored how glycosylation genes affect brain function and spent 10 weeks at the University of California Irvine conducting advanced cell biology research.

The cornerstone of her work involves converting invasive Caribbean seaweed into sustainable biofuel—a solution with profound implications for island economies. Students pursuing research abroad often find that reliable field equipment and documentation tools enhance their investigative work, with many scholars recommending portable laboratory notebooks and durable storage solutions to protect research data during international fieldwork.

Nelson is an Afro-Caribbean biology researcher who acknowledges that her community lacks adequate representation in cell biology and research fields. This awareness fuels not just her academic ambitions but her commitment to mentorship and community service. She volunteers at local middle schools, tutoring students and advocating for those who face educational barriers due to limited opportunities.

Her interest in becoming a Rhodes Scholar began years ago after joining the Antigua & Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra, where she served as first chair flutist and learned that the orchestra’s founder was Antigua’s only Rhodes Scholar. When Nelson later performed at Oxford University’s Christ Church during a UK tour, she contemplated the institution’s historical connections to colonialism. “If the labor of my forefathers and foremothers helped build that institution,” she reflected, “it would be really meaningful for me to learn there.”

Researchers traveling to international academic institutions often appreciate comprehensive travel preparation guides, and many scholars recommend bringing reference materials that document historical contexts of their chosen universities—resources that deepen understanding of these significant educational spaces.

While seaweed-to-biofuel research defines her current work, Nelson’s long-term aspirations extend even further. She envisions developing the first Afro-Caribbean stem cell line, explaining that she wants to take a stem cell and turn it into anything that can then be used as a diagnostic tool. This ambitious 10-year plan represents not merely personal achievement but potential transformation for medical diagnostics across the Caribbean and beyond.

Dr. Izquierdo expressed confidence in Nelson’s extraordinary trajectory, stating: “I would not be surprised if we’re talking about Resa becoming not only a Rhodes Scholar, but the president of a corporation or a Nobel Prize winner at some point.” Such endorsements from accomplished mentors speak volumes about Nelson’s potential impact on global science.

During extended research stays, students often find that reliable laboratory equipment and portable scientific tools enable more productive work, with many international scholars recommending quality materials for field and lab-based data collection.

Nelson’s achievement arrives at a significant moment for Hofstra University. Earlier this year, Hofstra earned the R2 research designation from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, a testament to the University’s dedication to research, innovation, and societal impact. Hofstra University President Susan Poser stated: “I am absolutely delighted that Hofstra has its first Rhodes Scholar, and I congratulate Resa Nelson on this momentous achievement.”

Her accomplishments exemplify the core principles of Hofstra 100, the university’s comprehensive strategic plan launched in 2024, which prioritizes identifying and supporting students pursuing prestigious national and international awards. Her recognition underscores Hofstra’s commitment to fostering research-driven education and nurturing scholars equipped to address global challenges.

As she prepares for graduate study at Oxford, she carries with her the support of her university community and the hopes of her homeland. Nelson will begin a master’s in biology by research in fall 2026, where she intends to continue her stem cell research focus. Her message to aspiring young scholars is one of encouragement and authenticity: “Do what you love and be yourself. If you’re not doing what you love, you’re not going to want to do it.”

Students planning international graduate study often find that comprehensive preparation resources help them transition smoothly, and many Oxford-bound scholars recommend bringing specialized research materials and organizational tools that support academic success in rigorous UK academic environments.

Beyond her personal achievements, she recognizes her role as a beacon for young people from underrepresented backgrounds in science. She hopes her story encourages others in Antigua and Barbuda to dream boldly, sharing advice: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to be afraid of what you’re doing, and there’ll be a time where you’re not afraid, and then you’ll do amazing things.”

Nelson’s journey—from a talented flutist inspired by a historic connection to Oxford, to a pioneering researcher addressing Caribbean sustainability challenges, to becoming the first Rhodes Scholar in Hofstra University’s history—demonstrates the power of curiosity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to service. As she embarks on this transformative chapter at Oxford, Resa Nelson stands poised to reshape conversations about diversity in STEM, sustainable energy solutions for island nations, and the potential of Afro-Caribbean scientific innovation.

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