Karl Kjer: Taking a Look at Biodiversity

Karl Kjer has been a noted member of the academic and research communities for much of the last 20 years. A recognized entomologist, taxonomist and molecular biologist who’s work includes such notable projects as the 1KITE initiative and major contributions to the Trichoptera Barcode of Life Database, Kjer has made considerable waves in insect phylogeny and trichopteran systematics throughout his career.

As Karl Kjer knows, better understanding the variety of life on the planet, or, as it’s commonly called, biodiversity, is key not only to obtaining a more comprehensive picture of how all organisms are connected and have evolved over time, but to the development and advancement of technologies, processes and innovation that will provide the human species a healthier and more sustainable future.

Karl Kjer has long worked on collecting information on and understanding the rich biodiversity existing across the insect family, in part at least, because of the practical applications such research may one day have in terms of improving life for human beings, and, in essence, all life across the planet.

By cataloging and analyzing the rich diversity of insect life at the molecular level, it may indeed be possible to better understand and develop ways to better protect and preserve water resources, contribute to climate stability, breakdown and absorb pollution and so on. Advancements in economic and environmental development may in fact hinge on the creation of a more comprehensive roadmap of the planet’s biodiversity, how it evolved and where it seems to be headed in the not-too-distant future.

Karl Kjer has been a member of the Entomological Society of America since 1986. He is currently a freelance science editor and writer.