Stephen Nowicki

Stephen Nowicki is a Professor of Biology at Duke University, affiliated with Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. He holds additional roles including Associate Chair of Biology, Professor in Psychology & Neuroscience, Neurobiology, and the Education Program. His research focuses on animal communication, birdsong syntax, signal reliability, and cognitive biology. He earned his Ph.D. in Biology from Cornell University (1984) and prior degrees from Tufts University (M.S. 1978, B.S. 1976).

Nowicki has held leadership positions such as Dean of Undergraduate Education (2007–2018) and Dean of Natural Sciences (2004–2007). His work bridges evolutionary biology, neuroscience, and behavioral ecology, with emphasis on how animals use signals for communication and assessment. He is a Bass Fellow and affiliated with the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences and Duke Science & Society.

His research explores topics like categorical color perception, vocal performance in songbirds, and the evolutionary pressures shaping animal signals. Notable contributions include studies on birdsong syntax rules, the role of testosterone in signaling, and the impact of early developmental conditions on cognitive abilities.