Dr Mia McLean is the ‘Bruce’ of the Kea Circus. She is curious about understanding the processes that shape child development from the very beginning of life. Her work focuses on the biopsychosocial mechanisms through which early experiences influence emotional and behavioural outcomes across childhood.
A key aspect of her work is understanding variability in outcomes—why some children experience ongoing difficulties, while others show resilience despite early risk. She is particularly interested in the role of caregiving environments, including how positive parent mood and behaviour may support adaptive stress regulation and healthy brain development.

Through this research, Mia aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of early development and generate evidence that informs clinical practice, early intervention, and policy to improve outcomes for children and families.

Mia has a love of birds (if you hadn’t guessed!) and connecting with people.