Ken Sweat

Ken Sweat is a Teaching Professor at Arizona State University's School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, with affiliations to the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the Global Futures Scientists and Scholars program. He earned his Ph.D. in Plant Biology (2010) and M.S. in Botany (1995) from ASU.

Dr. Sweat's research focuses on two primary areas: forensic botany (stomata, pollen, diatoms, and fungal succession analysis) and phytoremediation of metal-polluted soils. His work often involves undergraduate researchers through course-based initiatives like the NSF-funded CURE Program and integrates data science into biology education via capstone projects.

Recent publications highlight his expertise in environmental contaminant assessment (uranium, mercury) using plant indicators, chili pepper phytochemistry, and lichen-based air quality monitoring. He teaches upper-division courses such as Forensic Botany, Carbon & Climate, and STEM Research Fundamentals, while also offering public courses on climate change and desert flora.