Dr. Poodry is a biologist turned scientific administrator with research expertise in developmental genetics. He had a 22-year research and teaching career in cell biology and developmental genetics in Drosophila at the University of California, Santa Cruz, prior to joining NIGMS. At NIGMS, Poodry serves as director of the Division of Training, Workforce Development, and Diversity, which supports research training, career development, diversity and capacity-building activities through a variety of programs at the undergraduate, graduate, postdoctoral, faculty and institutional levels.
Poodry was a member of the Smithsonian Council from 1997-2003. He served as vice-chairperson of the National Research Council Committee on the High School Biology Curriculum in U.S. schools (1988-1990) and was a recipient of a National Science Foundation grant to provide training activities to teachers at American Indian schools (1988-1990). He has been a workshop leader for teacher training activities with the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) since 1990.
Poodry is a native of the Tonawanda Seneca Indian Reservation in western New York. He has twice been elected to the Board of Directors of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science. He is a former board member of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society and a 1995 recipient of its highest award, the Ely S. Parker Award, for lifelong accomplishments in science and contributions to the American Indian community. Poodry received an honorary doctorate of science from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1999.
Poodry has particular interest in science education and issues pertaining to American Indian participation in genetics research. He is the author of over 40 scientific papers and book chapters.
To arrange an interview with Clifton Poodry, contact the NIGMS Office of Communications and Public Liaison at 301-496-7301.
Watch Clifton Poodry talk about NIGMS programs that increase the diversity of the scientific workforce.
Watch Clifton Poodry talk about the value of diversity.
Watch Clifton Poodry talk about the value of mentorship. 
Watch a biographical video of Clifton Poodry.