Kristina O. Smiley

I have broad interests in the role of neural and physiological mechanisms (e.g., brain circuits, hormones) in regulating social behavior across animal species (including humans), and how these mechanisms have evolved over time. My research focuses on the neural, hormonal, and sensory basis of parental behavior using zebra finches as a model. Zebra finches are highly social creatures, biparental, and socially monogamous – making them an excellent model to study social behavior that is uniquely parallel to human social behavior.

My research focuses on three main questions:

1.     How do hormones affect parenting behavior (and vice versa)?

2.     How does the brain modify parenting behavior (and vice versa)?

3.     How do sensory cues, such as begging calls, from offspring drive parenting behavior in adults?

To answer these questions, I use a variety of research techniques ranging from behavioral testing to hormone assays, to brain circuit mapping, and in vivo electrophysiology to measure brain activity.  

My ultimate goal is to study the intersection of how the brain, hormones, and sensory processing work together to regulate parental behavior. Insights from this work may help us better understand how a healthy, parental brain functions, and how we might be able to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders, such as post-partum depression, that are unique to parents.

I am unable to take undergradute students for the Winter 2026 semester. 

Feel free to reach out if you are interested in working in the lab during the Summer or Fall 2026.