Kenneth Kardong grew up in the Northwest and attended the University of Washington (Seattle), earning an undergraduate degree and Master’s degree in zoology. His Ph.D. dissertation work was completed at the University of Illinois (Champaign-Urbana). His academic interests have centered upon the evolution of complex systems. Vertebrate design is complex, often elegant, and sometimes remarkably precise. How such closely matched form and function of vertebrate structure might evolve represents one of the major unresolved issues within modern biology, leading to much misunderstanding about punctuated changes in phylogeny. His study of the evolution of complex adaptations examines such issues within squamates, lizards and snakes, centered upon the complex snake jaw apparatus. Through the study of the snake jaw form, function, and evolution, we might begin to understand the basic processes and principles by which functionally integrated and complex designs evolve including humans. In addition to research papers, this interest has led Professor Kardong to write on issues within the philosophy of science, and on science and religion. He has also written a textbook intended for interested college students and laypersons, An Introduction to Biological Evolution.
Professor Kardong has been at Washington State University (Pullman) since 1972 where he taught courses in introductory biology, evolution for non-science majors, embryology, microanatomy, and comparative vertebrate anatomy, as well as various graduate level courses. Currently he is Professor Emeritus in the School of Biological Sciences.
2015