Ian F. Kimbrough, PhD

Associate Professor of Neuroscience
Director of Neuroimaging

B.S., Molecular Biology        University of Alabama (summa cum laude)
Ph.D., Neurobiology             University of Alabama at Birmingham

email: Kimbrough@Virginia.edu

Ian F. Kimbrough, PhD, is Associate Professor of Neuroscience and Director of Neuroimaging at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. In addition to directing the department’s neuroimaging resources, he serves as a Research Associate Professor in the laboratory of Harald Sontheimer, where he investigates how interactions among neurons, glia, blood vessels, and the extracellular matrix contribute to neurodegeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, glioma progression, and the role of perineuronal nets in health and disease.

Dr. Kimbrough’s interdisciplinary career bridges neuroscience and professional digital media, offering a unique perspective on scientific discovery. By integrating advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, computational imaging, scientific visualization, and science communication, Dr. Kimbrough’s work transforms complex biological datasets into new biological insights. His research investigates dynamic biological processes in living systems through advanced microscopy, innovative experimental preparations, and longitudinal intravital imaging. Working as a collaborative team scientist, Dr. Kimbrough partners with investigators across disciplines to develop innovative experimental and imaging methodologies, quantitative analysis strategies, and scientific visualization approaches that have supported numerous multidisciplinary, NIH-funded research programs, contributing to publications in leading journals including Nature Neuroscience, Nature Communications, and Brain.

As Director of Neuroimaging, Dr. Kimbrough collaborates with investigators from project conception through experimental design, image acquisition, quantitative analysis, and scientific visualization. He develops novel imaging methodologies and quantitative analysis approaches, provides advanced training in microscopy and image analysis, and helps investigators transform complex biological datasets into meaningful scientific discoveries.

Beyond his research and imaging leadership, Dr. Kimbrough directs the Department of Neuroscience’s outreach initiatives, fostering partnerships that connect UVA researchers with K–12 students and the broader community. Through innovative educational programs, he is committed to advancing scientific literacy and inspiring the next generation of neuroscientists.