Against the Current: Parthenogenesis and Nontraditional Reproduction in the Deep

Dive into the wild world of shark genetics with Kevin Feldheim, the A. Watson III Manager of the Pritzker Laboratory for Molecular Systematics and Evolution at the Field Museum. Since 2001, Kevin has been unraveling the mysteries of shark mating systems and population dynamics through cutting-edge genetic research. His latest deep-sea adventure? Exploring the fascinating phenomenon of parthenogenesis—a form of asexual reproduction—in sharks and rays. Partnering with aquariums around the country, he’s investigating how this rare reproductive strategy could shape the future of conservation efforts for these awe-inspiring creatures. Kevin holds degrees from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago.