Kristopher Karsten, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Biology
Dr. Karsten is an ecologist who integrates evolution, behavior, and physiology into his research, mostly using lizards as a model system. He uses field experiments and natural variation in traits to test hypotheses of character evolution and environmental adaptation in an integrative context. His goal continues to be the integration of behavior and physiology with evolutionary ecology. Sexual selection and life history evolution are two foci of strong interest.
Dr. Karsten's teaching interests are closely allied with his research interests. He is currently teaching Ecology & Evolution, Environmental Ecology, Scientific Literature (senior capstone), and will soon be adding courses in Herpetology and Introduction to Ecology & Populations.
Education
Ph.D. Oklahoma State University, 2008, Zoology with specialization in Ecology, Evolution, & Behavior
M.S. Texas Christian University, 2000, Biology
B.S. Truman State University, 1997, Biology
Expertise
Herpetology, Sexual Selection, Life History Evolution, Ecology, Evolution, Behavior
Email: karsten@callutheran.edu
Phone: (805) 493-3385
Office: ASCI 119
