Loran’s research examines how contemporary environments (what he calls human ecology) affect human behavior. He uses theory-driven insights to create interventions and policy recommendations that improve decision-making and well-being. His research has published in leading journals such as Science and is regularly discussed in prominent forums such as the Harvard Business Review. In recognition of his work, Professor Nordgren has received the Theoretical Innovation Award in experimental psychology. A former Fulbright Scholar, Professor Nordgren has received numerous teaching awards for excellence in the classroom and in 2012 was named Kellogg's Management and Organization's Teacher of the Year. He is one of Poets & Quants’ 40 under 40 business school professors.