Julia Chester

Professor, Department of Psychological Sciences

Associate Department Head

Areas of Expertise

Neuroscience
Alcohol Use Disorder
Animal Models of Psychiatric Disorders
Behavioral Pharmacology
Genetics
Stress

HHS Signature Research Area(s)

Developmental Health and Wellness
Healthy Lifestyles and Vital Longevity

Department of Psychological Sciences Research Area(s)

Neuroscience and Behavior

Biography

Dr. Chester’s research program focuses on the development and characterization of animal models as tools to identify biological and behavioral mechanisms that influence risk for alcohol use disorders and co-occurring conditions in order to improve the quality of human life. Through teaching, community and media engagement, and professional society advocacy work, Dr. Chester promotes public knowledge about neuroscience, research ethics, and the vital role that animal research plays in scientific discovery and the advancement of medicine. Dr. Chester’s research program has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, Brain & Behavior Research Foundation, Department of Defense, and Purdue University.

Recruiting graduate students for Fall 2025 admission.

Education

PhD, 1998, Oregon Health & Science University

Social Media Accounts

Twitter

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Psychological Sciences DEI committee

Current Courses

PSY 421 - Alcohol Use and Disorders
PSY 464 - Research Ethics in Psychological Sciences

Selected Honors/Awards

Seed for Success Award for Excellence in Research, Purdue University - 2018
Jane S. Link Outstanding Teaching Award, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University - 2018
Book of Great Teachers, Purdue University - 2018
James C. Naylor Award for Teaching Excellence in Psychology, Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University - 2016