

Centre for Developing Minds

The Team
Principal Investigator

Dr. Carolyn Baer
carolynbaer@trentu.ca | CV | Bluesky | OSF
Carolyn is the director of the Centre for Developing Minds and an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Trent University. She earned a PhD from the University of British Columbia and BA and MASc degrees from the University of Waterloo. She held postdoctoral appointments at the University of California, Berkeley and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
Outside of the lab, Carolyn enjoys reading, decorating, baking, eating good food, and soaking up any sunshine she can get her hands on.
Research Assistants

Kailey Puddy
Kailey is a Research Assistant in the lab with a strong interdisciplinary background. She holds a BA (Honours) in Forensic Psychology and is currently pursuing her second year of studies in Social Work. Her research interests center on peer relationships, social interactions, and their influence on mental health.
Outside of her academic and research pursuits, Kailey enjoys reading, crocheting, and sewing, often exploring creative projects in her free time. The lab benefits greatly from her thoughtful approach, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to research.

Addie Sullivan
Addie is a Research Practicum Student in the lab and is currently in her third year of Psychology. She is specializing in health and wellbeing psychology, psychological research methods, and data analysis, while also completing a minor in Sociology. With a strong passion for mental health, Addie aspires to pursue graduate studies and a career as a clinical psychologist.
Beyond her academic work, Addie enjoys paddle boarding with friends, crocheting, sewing, and nurturing her growing collection of plants. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication make her a valued member of the team.
Lab Alumni
Tia Kleiner, Lab Manager
Navdeep Kaur, Research Assistant
Manmeet Singh, Research Assistant
Noopur Shah, Research Assistant
Alessandra Pinto, Research Assistant
Arya Karki, Research Assistant
Priyanka, Research Assistant (Winter 2025 - Spring 2025)