Angélica Carranza is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience within the UNC College of Arts and Sciences and a fellow within the Winston Center on Technology and Brain Development. She studies how environmental factors and social contexts — like technology and social media — shape brain development and mental health across adolescence.

How did you discover your specific field of study?

In 2015, after transferring to the University of California, Davis while pursuing my bachelor’s in psychology, I was encouraged to explore research opportunities. At the time, I was interested in understanding how to promote healthy relationships, positive developmental outcomes, and well-being in children and families. That’s when I came across the Healthy Emotions, Relationships, and Development Lab. While there, I was introduced to research on the social and emotional development of children — especially how relationships with parents and friends, along with biological factors, influence whether they thrive or struggle as they grow up.

Then, I met with a graduate student mentor and shared my growing passion for studying the brain in relation to mental health. And as luck would have it, they had recently been approached by a new faculty member who was establishing a lab focused on brain development and mental health in adolescents and was looking for a lab manager. I was fortunate to enough to get connected with that professor, Dr. Johnna Swartz, who later became my predoctoral advisor. It was in her lab, first as a lab manager and later as a graduate student, that I developed my research identity as a developmental social neuroscientist.

Academics are problem-solvers. Describe a research challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it.

Not knowing exactly what I wanted to study. As an undergraduate, I was still exploring my interests, and through trying different projects, asking questions, and following my curiosity, I discovered the areas of research that truly resonated with me. Each step — from studying children’s emotional development to exploring neurobiology to examining brain development and mental health — helped me refine my focus and build confidence in my path.

This experience taught me that finding your research identity is a process, not a single decision. For students who may feel uncertain about their own direction, I encourage them to embrace that period of exploration. It’s often in the process of trying, learning, and being open to new opportunities that you discover the work that excites you most.

Describe your research in five words.

How technology affects teen brains.

Who or what inspires you? Why?

Walking through art museums gives me space to reflect, which I find both grounding and therapeutic. I also draw energy from exceptionally talented artists and athletes like painters, musicians, and a world-class runners. Their determination and creativity remind me of the discipline and drive it takes to excel, and that motivates me to push myself and think in new ways.

Running is another important source of inspiration for me. During a good run I often find myself entering a flow state where ideas come more freely and my mind is more at ease. Those moments fuel my curiosity and creativity.

If you could pursue any other career, what would it be and why?

A marine biologist. I’ve always been captivated by whales, especially blue whales. Their sheer size is hard to wrap my head around, yet within the vastness of the ocean they are still so small. I find that contrast fascinating, and I love the thought of studying and swimming among them, learning from such extraordinary creatures.