Nicole M. Baran

Nicole M. Baran is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Davidson College, specializing in interdisciplinary behavioral neuroendocrinology and vertebrate biology. Her research focuses on the evolution and development of complex social behaviors, including pair bonding, parental care, and vocal learning, particularly in songbirds.

• Education: Ph.D. from Cornell University, B.A. from the University of Chicago

In her lab, she investigates how social experiences, hormones, gene expression, and the genome interact to shape social development in zebra finches and Society finches. Her work bridges behavioral biology, neuroscience, and genomics, offering insights into human neurodevelopmental disorders. She emphasizes inclusive, curiosity-driven teaching in both classroom and lab environments.