Richard A. Holm, one of the country's leading researchers in the field of bio-inorganic chemistry, will join the Harvard faculty as professor of Chemistry in July.

Holm's research deals with the effect of inorganic compounds in biological processes such as plant respiration, Dudley R. Herschbach, chairman of the Chemistry Department, said recently, adding, "By elegant, imaginative experiments, he has found the long-sought 'Holy Grail' for some very important enzymes. It turns out to consist of remarkably simple structures."

The department plans to purchase an X-ray defractometer for Holm's experiments, Donald J. Ciappenelli, professor of Chemistry, said recently.

A National Science Foundation grant to the department will pay for the instrument, used in measurements for small molecules, Ciappennelli added.

Holm, who held an assistant professorship here from 1960 to 1965, said he plans to continue both research and teaching in his new position. "I hope to uphold the tradition of excellence in the department," he added.

"As a conscientious and earnest research scientist, he will contribute greatly to both teaching and research in our inorganic area," Herschbach added.