Haruka Wada

Haruka Wada is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Auburn University, part of the College of Science and Mathematics. Her research integrates behavioral endocrinology, neuroscience, immunology, and field biology to study how early-life and maternal stressors shape developmental trajectories in birds.

Education:

• Postdoctoral Fellow – University of Western Ontario (2009–2011)
• Postdoctoral Associate – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (2007–2009)
• Ph.D. – The University of Texas at Austin (2007)
• B.Sc. – University of Washington (1999)

Her research interests center on integrative stress physiology, focusing on developmental plasticity, maternal effects, and phenotypic flexibility in response to nutritional, toxicological, and social stressors. She investigates how stress hormones like corticosterone and environmental contaminants such as mercury alter stress responses, neural development, and song learning in avian species. Her lab uses songbirds as models to link brain anatomy with measurable behaviors, particularly in the context of early adversity.

The available publications reflect a strong focus on avian stress physiology, neuroendocrinology, and ecotoxicology, with recurring themes in developmental timing, hormonal regulation, and long-term fitness consequences. Studies span from molecular and cellular responses to whole-organism performance, often examining the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and neural plasticity.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

Dr. Wada is actively involved in mentoring graduate and undergraduate researchers. She is currently recruiting Ph.D. students for projects supported by an NSF IOS grant, focusing on stress responses, heat tolerance in embryos, and the Damage-Fitness Model. Her lab fosters a collaborative environment, engaging in interdisciplinary research across physiology, genomics, and functional biology. She also contributes to teaching, including courses such as Human A&P II.

Her lab is part of the Physiological Adaptations and Functional Genomics core group, promoting synergy with complementary research teams. She emphasizes inclusivity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups in STEM.