At Ohio University, Nesic has graduated 36 Ph.D. students, 23 master's students and mentored 40 or more postdoctoral researchers, many of whom are now accomplished academics in their own right, from more than 20 countries. He has published more than 150 peer-reviewed papers in leading international journals in his field and penned 18 book chapters and more than 240 peer-reviewed published conference proceedings articles. He is one of the most cited authors in the Russ College's history, with more than 14,600 citations of his published work.

Distinguished professors are recognized for sustained and internationally-recognized academic contributions that raise the OHIO profile. They are committed to represent the University in its teaching and research missions and are entitled to award a full tuition scholarship to an undergraduate student of their choice each year, from the time of award until five years post-retirement from teaching.