As an undergraduate at Drew University, an introductory neuroscience class introduced her to the effects of stress on brain chemistry and behavior. She was fascinated by the intersections of addiction, sex differences and genetics with neuroscience, and decided to intern at the Jackson Laboratory. Then she came to Yale.
At Yale, Violet’s digging into neurogenetics. In an elective in the genetics department, she learned RNA sequencing techniques, which she hopes will deepen understanding of how genes regulate sex-specific mechanisms in substance use and social behavior. Violet’s most excited by her work’s translational potential to help develop treatments for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Her long-term goal is to lead her own lab uncovering the underlying mechanisms behind sex differences in addiction.
Violet’s thankful she found a supportive PI whose research interests match hers. Nii Addy, PhD, has introduced her to great opportunities, including the MBL SPINES program, where she spent three weeks surrounded by other underrepresented minorities in neuroscience and deepened her understanding of the field. She also enjoys attending research talks and participating in organizations like Yale BBS Diversity and Inclusion Collective (YBDIC), Yale’s chapter of the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science, and the Wu Tsai Institute. The casual setting of these groups makes the learning process “more accessible and enjoyable,” said Violet.
“Dr. Nii Addy has been a great mentor, and his lab has provided me with ample opportunities to further my knowledge and skills in the field,” Violet said. “I feel grateful to have found a community of like-minded individuals and have established lifelong friendships with other students pursuing academic research in neuroscience.”