Violet Kimble will do postdoc research at the University of Utah’s Mental Health Institute
August 2026 – Drew University alum Violet Kimble C’21 recently earned her PhD in neuroscience from Yale University.
Kimble graduated from Drew in 2021 with a BS in neuroscience, minor in statistics, and a fledgling academic consulting firm for aspiring scholars from non-traditional and first-generation students.
Her time at Yale was transformative, allowing her to grow into the kind of researcher she wanted to become. The program helped her build upon the skills, knowledge, and confidence she gained at Drew.
“Drew prepared me in more ways than I realized at the time,” said Kimble. “The small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and early exposure to research helped me build confidence and a strong foundation. I learned how to advocate for myself, ask questions, write clearly, and take intellectual risks. Those skills mattered just as much as the science did once I got to Yale.”
Kimble specifically noted Christina McKittrick, associate professor of biology and director of the neuroscience program, as an impactful mentor.
“She was an amazing professor, and her lab was where I first learned the fundamentals of behavioral neuroscience and animal research. She encouraged me to pursue research opportunities beyond Drew, supported my growth as a scientist, and wrote many letters of recommendation that helped me get into Yale.”
Kimble is now a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Utah’s Huntsman Mental Health Institute, where she will continue building a translational research program focused on substance use disorders, sex differences, endocrine biology, and recovery.
“I want to stay close to work that connects rigorous neuroscience with real clinical impact,” said Kimble. “I’m grateful for the role Drew played in getting me here and helping me see research as a real path for myself.”
