Kathryn Theiss

Kathryn Theiss serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology within the College of Natural & Behavioral Sciences at California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Her academic credentials include:

• B.A. from Willamette University
• Ph.D. from University of Connecticut
• Postdoctoral research at Willamette University

Dr. Theiss specializes in evolutionary botany with emphasis on plant reproductive strategies and their conservation implications amid global climate change. Her integrated methodology combines field studies, molecular analysis, and greenhouse experimentation across diverse taxa including milkweeds (Asclepias), Malagasy orchids (Erasanthe henrici), Pacific Northwest camas lilies (Camassia), and desert evening primroses (Oenothera). Current research examines breeding system evolution in arid-adapted species while addressing conservation challenges through demographic modeling and species boundary assessments.

She maintains active teaching responsibilities for BIO 124 Principles of Biology III and BIO 495 Selected Topics in Biology (Botany) from her office in SCI 212, contactable via (310) 243-3408.