He studied atomic physics (cand.scient) and philosophy (cand.polit) at the University of Bergen. His doctorate from NTNU investigates the philosophical rationale for ELSA (or RRI) initiatives, through a study of the establishment of microarray technology and the FUGE initiative in Norway. Following this, he has been exploring the potential of the ELSA/RRI strategy of close collaboration between natural scientists and humanists in various research projects. Nydal teaches research ethics and the ethics of science and technology. Nydal is a member of The National Committee for Research Ethics in Science and Technology (NENT).