Sandy Kawano

Sandy Kawano is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at George Washington University, where she leads the Fins and Limbs Lab. Her research focuses on the biomechanics and evolutionary adaptations of vertebrates, particularly examining the transition from aquatic to terrestrial locomotion.

Dr. Kawano received her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Clemson University in 2014, following a B.S. in Evolution, Ecology, and Biodiversity from the University of California, Davis (2008) and an A.S. in Biological Sciences from De Anza College (2005).

Her research expertise spans comparative biomechanics and physiology, functional morphology, water-to-land transition in vertebrate evolution, natural selection, and musculoskeletal function. Dr. Kawano's work combines experimental approaches with computational modeling to understand how anatomical structures function during movement and how these functions evolve across different environments.

Analysis of Dr. Kawano's recent publications reveals a strong focus on salamander locomotion, mudskipper biomechanics, and the evolutionary transition from fins to limbs. Her research employs kinematic analysis, 3D modeling, and comparative approaches across diverse species to understand fundamental principles of vertebrate movement and adaptation. Key themes include the functional morphology of climbing behaviors, the biomechanics of water-to-land transitions, and the evolutionary adaptations of vertebrate appendages.

Dr. Kawano is actively involved in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM. Her lab maintains a Code of Conduct and Operational Agreement focused on creating a safe, inclusive environment that promotes growth and learning for all members.

Her lab members include Emily Naylor, Alec Baines, Jonathan Huie, and Zach Quigley, who contribute to various research projects examining vertebrate locomotion and evolutionary biomechanics.