Kevin Omland

Kevin Omland is a Full Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where he has been on faculty since 2000. He also held visiting positions at the Australian National University in 2007 and 2010.

Education:

• PhD in Biological Sciences, University at Albany (SUNY), 1995
• BA in Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, 1985
• Postdoctoral research at Duke University, University of Minnesota, and Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

Dr. Omland’s research focuses on evolutionary biology, phylogenetics, ornithology, and conservation biology. He investigates speciation, population genetics, female song evolution, and avian coloration, primarily in New World orioles (Icterus) and ravens (Corvus). His work includes the conservation of endangered species like the Bahama Oriole and Puerto Rican Oriole.

His recent publications highlight female song in tropical and temperate species, speciation reversal in ravens, and genetic studies of migratory connectivity. His Understanding the Tree of Life book (Cambridge University Press, 2025) addresses misconceptions about phylogenetic trees.

Scientific Awards:

• UMBC Presidential Research Professor (2016–2019)

Dr. Omland’s work has been funded by the National Science Foundation (OISE-1827110), supporting conservation research in the Bahamas and training for undergraduate and PhD students. He emphasizes tree thinking and diverse perspectives in science, particularly through female birdsong studies.