Holm is a professor of materials science and engineering at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). Prior to joining CMU in 2012, she spent 20 years as a computational materials scientist at Sandia National Laboratories, working on simulations to improve processes for lighting manufacture, microcircuit aging and reliability, and the processing and welding of advanced materials. Her research areas include the theory and modeling of microstructural evolution in complex polycrystals, the physical and mechanical response of microstructures, atomic-scale properties of internal interfaces, and the wetting and spreading of liquid metals.

Holm obtained her B.S.E in materials science and engineering, and dual Ph.D. in materials science and engineering and scientific computing, from the University of Michigan. She also received an S.M in ceramics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Active in professional societies, Holm has received several honors and awards, is a Fellow of ASM International, Past President of The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS), an organizer of several international conferences, and has been a member of the National Materials Advisory Board. She has authored or co-authored more than 110 publications.