Maury A. Nussbaum receives Paul M. Fitts Education Award from Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Maury A. Nussbaum, the John Grado Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering, has received the Paul M. Fitts Education Award from the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society. The award was presented during the society's annual conference in October 2025 and recognizes Nussbaum’s outstanding contributions to the education and training of human factors and ergonomics specialists.
Nussbaum is a leader in occupational ergonomics and biomechanics, known for pairing rigorous, human-centered research with sustained mentorship and a passion for student success.
“I’m particularly honored to receive this award for education, because to me, education is both the most important and most rewarding part of my career,” said Nussbaum. “I’m also incredibly grateful to all the current and former graduate students who trusted me enough to let me serve as their advisor. I hope I’ve been able to repay that trust.”
The award honors exceptional contributions to educating and training human factors/ergonomics specialists, emphasizing a recipient’s lasting influence on students and the widespread use of their teaching or publications across the field. As Nussbaum’s graduates build labs, manage research programs, and translate science into practice, they amplify Virginia Tech’s research strengths.
“Maury’s mentorship shapes scholars who lead in academia, government, and industry,” said Eileen Van Aken, department head for the Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. “Their achievements reflect the culture of excellence he fosters at Virginia Tech and his unwavering drive to improve the world through human-centered research.”
To date, Nussbaum has advised 44 Ph.D. students, 22 master’s students, and 21 undergraduates completing research projects. He has also hosted and advised several visiting Ph.D. students and scholars. With over 270 publications and more than 15,000 citations, Nussbaum has been responsible for $26.3 million in total research funding, with $9.4 million as his personal share, across 78 externally funded grants. His recent research on exoskeletons has been funded by grants from government agencies and private industry.
Nussbaum received bachelor’s degrees in biomedical sciences and mechanical engineering, a master’s degree in bioengineering, and a Ph.D. in industrial and operations engineering, all from the University of Michigan.
