Former ORISE participant studies toxicology of chemical threat agents and development of medical countermeasures

Meet Heidi Hoard-Fruchey, Ph.D.

Former ORISE participant studies toxicology of chemical threat agents and development of medical countermeasures

Former ORISE participant Heidi Hoard-Fruchey, Ph.D., studies toxicology of chemical threat agents and development of medical countermeasures as a research biologist at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense.

Current Position: Biologist, Army Public Health Center

Education:

  • B.S., Biochemistry, Michigan State University
  • Ph.D., Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic

Award/Accomplishments:

  • 2017 - Federal Executive Board Excellence in Federal Career Outstanding Para-Professional Technical, Scientific, & Program Team Award - Bronze
  • 2016 - Federal Executive Board Excellence in Federal Career Volunteer Service – Individual Award – Silver 
  • 2016 - Federal Executive Board Excellence in Federal Career Volunteer Service – Group or Team Award - Silver

Areas of Interest: 

  • Toxicology of newly developed chemicals
  • Toxicology of chemical threat agents and development of medical countermeasures
  • STEM outreach

What’s the favorite part of your job?

"My favorite part of my job has to be the mentoring. I mean, I love the science, don't get me wrong. I really love toxicology, but mentoring others is by far the most rewarding part of being a scientist. To watch a mentee progress through their career, and help the mentee prepare for the next step of their career, there's nothing more exciting to be a part of." 

Role as an ORISE Mentor: Throughout my career with the Army, I have mentored college students, post-graduates (bachelor's and master's degrees) and post-doctoral fellows through the ORISE program.