Kimberly Agnew-Heard, Ph.D.
Director Regulatory Affairs, Altria Client Services LLC
How did you get started in the field of Analytical Chemistry?
I got started in analytical chemistry during my junior and senior years at Georgia State University, when I participated in the Ronald E. McNair Baccalaureate Achievement Program led by Drs. Alfons Baumstark and Davon Kennedy. That experience gave me early exposure to research and helped me see that science could be used to solve real-world problems. My passion for data, spectroscopy, and separation science grew even stronger during graduate school at Louisiana State University, where I conducted research with my advisor, Dr. Isiah Warner. Those experiences gave me a strong technical foundation and confirmed that analytical chemistry was the right path for me.
What makes your current position exciting and unique?
What makes my current role especially exciting is that it allows me to bring together so many parts of my academic and professional background in a meaningful way. The skills I developed as an analytical chemist—evaluating complex data, solving problems, and communicating clearly—have transferred naturally into regulatory affairs, where I now work closely with scientists, product developers, marketing, legal partners, and manufacturing teams across the company. I especially value interdisciplinary collaboration because it allows me to connect science to regulatory strategy while helping teams align on the best path forward throughout the product lifecycle. What makes my role most rewarding is seeing how thoughtful collaboration, a strong compliance mindset, and a broad application of science can come together to support sound decisions.
What advice do you give to young scientists beginning their careers in Analytical Chemistry?
I would encourage them to stay curious, adaptable, and intentional about growing their network, while also keeping up with new technologies that will shape our future, including artificial intelligence. A degree in analytical chemistry can also be a launching pad for careers outside the lab, so it is important to recognize and leverage the skills you build beyond your degree and daily responsibilities. Communication matters just as much as your technical skills, because your impact grows when you can explain your data clearly to different audiences. I would also tell them to get involved in the American Chemical Society (ACS) community through membership, committees, meetings, and especially the ACS Division of Analytical Chemistry! Getting involved in the ACS community will enable you to advance your science, build lasting connections, and help shape their professional journey.
What are your interests outside of science?
Outside of work, I care deeply about mentoring and supporting the next generation of scientists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds and first-generation students. I am also very involved in the ACS, where I previously served as Chair and Councilor for the Division of Analytical Chemistry and currently serve on the ACS Board of Directors. Those roles have given me meaningful opportunities to build community, support the profession, and stay connected to the people and issues shaping the future of chemistry. On a personal level, I am passionate about yoga, which has become an important part of how I care for myself and stay grounded.
What do you envision for the field of Analytical Chemistry in the future?
I believe analytical chemistry will play an even greater role in shaping a future where decisions are guided by trusted, data-driven science. That is especially important at a time when maintaining public trust in science matters more than ever, including among those who are not scientists. Analytical chemistry is at the heart of so many scientific disciplines because measurement science supports everything from foundational discovery to advanced applied research that improves our daily lives, such as the food we eat, the medicines we take, and the environment around us. As technology continues to advance, I see exciting opportunities for lower detection limits, new types of measurements, and meaningful career opportunities across industry, government, and academia.
