The collection contains Dr. Alvin Nielsen's research and administrative papers, from 1936-1980, and commemorative materials, from 1980-2001.

Series I: Physics Department, 1936-1989 January 13, undated -- Series I consists of papers related to Nielsen's tenure as a physics professor and head of the Department of Physics at the University of Tennessee. It includes reports, correspondence, and news articles. It also contains photographs, taken by Nielsen, of the university's campus, events and fellow faculty members.

Series II: College of Liberal Arts, 1952 January 1-1994 June 9, undated -- Series II contains papers related to Nielsen's term as dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Tennessee. It includes reports, correspondence, and news articles. It also contains photograph slides, taken by Nielsen, of the university campus, and photographs of College of Liberal Arts faculty and staff given to Nielsen and his wife, Jane Ann.

Series III: Memorials and Honors, 1977-2001 October, undated -- Series III comprises of papers documenting honors bestowed upon Nielsen during his lifetime, including the dedication of the Alvin H. Nielsen Physics Building and the Alvin H. Nielsen College Scholars Scholarship Award, and after his death in 1994. It consists mostly of news articles, biographical information, and pamphlets.