Nicole A. Telfer

Nicole A. Telfer is an Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department at Notre Dame of Maryland University, affiliated with the School of Arts, Sciences & Business. She holds a PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and has advanced training from the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at UNC-Chapel Hill.

• PhD: Applied Developmental Psychology - University of Maryland Baltimore County
• MA: Applied Developmental Psychology - University of Maryland Baltimore County
• BS: Human Development and Family Studies and Psychology - Pennsylvania State University

Her research focuses on the development of racially and ethnically minoritized (REM) youth, particularly Black youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Grounded in African-centered psychology, intersectionality, and disability critical race theory, her work examines parental ethnic-racial socialization, early childhood intervention, educational equity, and socio-cultural determinants of development. She is committed to community-engaged scholarship and improving well-being through systemic change.

Her recent publications explore equity in early childhood assessment tools like the ECERS-3, resilience in the Black autism community, faith-based supports, and racism’s impact on child development. She has presented her research at national and international conferences including NRCEC, Society for Prevention Research, and the International ECERS Conference.

Dr. Telfer has received grant support from the Brady Education Foundation and the American Psychological Foundation. She is an active member of key professional organizations:

• Society for Research on Child Development (SRCD)
• Society for Community Research and Action (SCRA)
• American Psychological Association (APA)

She is also a published author, with notable works including Our Doctoral Journey: A Collection of Black Women's Experiences and A Black Woman's Guide to Earning a PhD, which support underrepresented scholars in higher education. Her work integrates research, advocacy, and mentorship to advance equity in developmental science and education.