Harry Salem, Ph.D.

Chief Scientist for Life Sciences
2018

Dr. Salem serves as chief scientist for life sciences for the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center.

Salem first joined the Edgewood Arsenal in 1984 as chief of the Toxicology Division. During Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Salem oversaw the testing of a new protective suit – the Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suit Technology. Currently, his work focuses on stem cell research and the “organ on a chip” program, which implants organoids – a collection of cells from a specific organ – into a microchip for testing.

Salem has held the positions of acting senior team leader for biosciences and acting director for the Research and Technology Directorate. His research interests and experience include inhalation and general pharmacology and toxicology, and in-vitro and molecular toxicology.

Earning his doctorate in 1958, Salem initially worked in the pharmaceutical industry, where he played a role in developing NyQuil and contact lenses. Beyond his work at Edgewood, Salem’s professional achievements include being awarded the Society of Toxicology Congressional Science Fellowship and serving as a consultant to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and to then-Attorney General Janet Reno on matters of toxicology. In 1989, Dr. Salem was awarded the Army Meritorious Civilian Service Award – the Army’s second-highest civilian service award – for his contributions to the field of toxicology.