Kristin Johnson

Kristin Johnson is a Professor at the University of Puget Sound and Director of the Science, Technology, Health and Society Program. Her scholarly work bridges history, biology, and philosophy through analyses of evolutionary debates, natural history, and intersections of medicine, faith, and ethics. She teaches courses such as Apes, Angels, and Darwin, History of Public Health, and Evolution and Ethics.

• PhD (2003), MA (2000), Oregon State University
• BA (1997), University of Washington

Johnson’s research focuses on the historical interplay between science and societal values, particularly in the life sciences. Her publications explore topics like the role of natural history museums, theological responses to Darwinism, and the impact of child mortality on scientific and religious discourse. She has authored both academic monographs and historical fiction to contextualize these debates.

Recent publications include Imagining Progress: Science, Faith, Child Mortality in America (2024) and Darwin’s Falling Sparrow (2023), reflecting her long-standing interest in science-religion tensions and evolutionary ethics. Her work often integrates interdisciplinary perspectives, connecting taxonomy, genetics, and historical narrative.

Scientific Awards

• Honorary Mention for 'Think-Write-Publish: Science and Religion' story writing contest

Johnson’s teaching directly influences her research, particularly through courses like Natural History Museums and Society and Medicine in the U.S. - Historical Perspectives. She engages students in exploring how scientific concepts shape and are shaped by cultural contexts.