معرفی
Professor Kenshu Shimada is a full-time faculty member and Director of Biology's Graduate Studies in the Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Science and Studies at DePaul University's College of Science and Health. His office is located in McGowan South, Suite 203 with contact email kshimada@depaul.edu and phone (773) 325-3697.
Shimada specializes in the paleobiology of Mesozoic marine vertebrates, with particular expertise in lamniform sharks including both apex predators (mako, great white) and filter feeders (basking, megamouth). His research examines morphological adaptations in relation to life history strategies, behavior, ecology, and evolutionary trajectories across geologic time scales. He actively investigates the evolution of gigantism and endothermy in extinct shark lineages through detailed analysis of fossil morphology and physiological proxies.
His publication trends reveal consistent focus on Cretaceous to Neogene marine ecosystems, with recurring emphasis on Otodus megalodon biology, lamniform phylogeny, and functional morphology. Key research threads include skeletal adaptations in deep-time sharks, paleoecological reconstruction of marine communities, and evolutionary implications of body form diversity across elasmobranch lineages.
Professor Shimada advises graduate students as Director of Biology's Graduate Studies and maintains active research collaborations evidenced by institutional partnerships. His work receives substantial external recognition through media coverage of NSF-funded research.
Professional Activities:
- Chair of Government Affairs Committee, Society of Vertebrate Paleontology
- Research Associate in Paleontology, Sternberg Museum of Natural History, Hays, Kansas
- Editorial Board Member, Journal of Fossil Research (Fossil Research Society of Japan)
Professional Society Memberships:
- American Elasmobranch Society
- American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists
- Fossil Research Society of Japan
- Kansas Academy of Science
- Paleontological Society
- Society of Vertebrate Paleontology
