Heidi R. Ries

Dr. Heidi R. Ries is the Provost and Chief Academic Officer at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), where she also holds a faculty appointment as Professor of Physics. Her academic leadership has significantly enhanced AFIT's external funding and reputation in cutting-edge research areas such as cybersecurity, directed energy, and space technology. She previously served as Interim Dean of AFIT's Graduate School of Engineering and Management.

• Bachelor of Science in Physics (summa cum laude with distinction), The Ohio State University (1982)
• Master of Science in Physics, The Ohio State University (1984)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Physics, Old Dominion University (1987)

Dr. Ries' research spans interdisciplinary fields including materials science, quantum mechanics, and aerospace engineering. Her work has addressed microwave properties of doped materials, spin dynamics of transition metals, laser material development, and radiation effects on polymers. She has pioneered advancements in holographic data storage and scramjet thermal management.

Dr. Ries' scientific accolades include induction into The Ohio State University at Marion Alumni Hall of Fame (2022), recognition as the Air Force's DoD STEM Role Model (2011), and multiple meritorious service awards. She has authored over a dozen publications across solid-state physics, polymer science, and aerospace engineering.

• 2022: The Ohio State University at Marion Alumni Hall of Fame
• 2013: Air Force Exemplary Civilian Service Award
• 2011: DoD Women's History Month STEM Role Model Award
• 2011: National Latina Distinguished Service Award
• 2009: Dayton Daily News Ten Top Women
• 2008: Air Force Meritorious Civilian Service Award

As a leader in academic and technical innovation, Dr. Ries has driven over 800% growth in AFIT's external research funding. She contributes to higher education governance as a Martin University Board of Trustees Chair, Engineering and Science Foundation of Dayton Trustee, and Higher Learning Commission Team Chair. Her mentorship extends to coaching Centerville City Schools' Science Olympiad teams.