The National Science Foundation Division of Integrative Organismal Systems awarded Ramapo College of New Jersey $303,564 on October 1, 2025, under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to examine the disconnect between prolactin and parental care in avian brood parasites.
The research investigates why obligate brood parasites—birds that lay eggs in nests of other species rather than providing parental care—experience seasonal prolactin peaks despite providing no offspring care, suggesting that circulating prolactin levels alone may not adequately explain parental behavior motivation. The studies identify molecular and neurophysiological mechanisms underlying parental behavior and employ gene manipulation approaches to increase prolactin receptor abundance in parasite bird brains and decrease it in non-parasitic birds, testing how these modifications alter parental care behaviors.
The project integrates citizen science and undergraduate engagement. Field components include participation from students in programs designed to promote interaction of girls with female scientists. Robotic birds developed through the research will be incorporated into summer research camps introducing high school students to biological experiments using robotics. Cutting-edge gene manipulation approaches will provide hands-on laboratory experience for undergraduate students in coursework.
Work is performed in Mahwah, New Jersey, with a period of performance from October 1, 2025, through April 30, 2026.