Akito Kawahara
Akito Kawahara
Director, Curator, and Professor
Director, Curator, and Professor
Born in the bustling cityscape of New York City, Akito Kawahara was raised in a culturally rich environment. He commuted between the United States and Japan as part of his "Taiheiyou-tsugaku" or Trans-Pacific schooling. His unique upbringing endowed him with fluency in Japanese and English and proficiency in Spanish and Chinese reading and writing skills. These linguistic abilities would later enhance his capacity to engage with international research communities and contribute to his nuanced understanding of global biodiversity.
Kawahara’s intrigue with the natural world steered him toward Cornell University, where he pursued an undergraduate degree in Entomology. His academic path led him to the University of Maryland, College Park, for his Master's and doctoral studies. There, he explored the evolutionary dynamics of hawkmoths and leaf-mining moths, which sparked his lifelong commitment to studying Lepidoptera.
Kawahara's career began with foundational roles that shaped his research perspective, including a Howard Hughes Undergraduate Fellowship at Cornell University. He furthered his experience at Project ALAS in Costa Rica, delving into field research that expanded his understanding of tropical biodiversity. His post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Hawaii focused on plant and environmental protection sciences, setting the stage for future research endeavors.
In 2023, Kawahara ascended to the role of Director at the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, housed within the Florida Museum of Natural History. His directorship involves overseeing one of the world's largest collections of butterflies and moths, including over 10 million specimens. His leadership extends beyond curation; he actively engages with donors and stakeholders to secure funding for critical research and educational initiatives to understand and preserve Lepidoptera.
Kawahara's research is characterized by its depth and breadth. He focuses on butterflies and moths' genetic and behavioral adaptations. He examines how these adaptations influence survival strategies, such as moths using ultrasound to evade bat predators. His approach integrates diverse methodologies, including phylogenetics, genomics, and informatics, to address fundamental questions about species diversity and evolutionary biology.
Kawahara’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including the John Henry Comstock Award from the Entomological Society of America and a prestigious professorship award from the University of Florida. His research projects have attracted significant funding, totaling $13 million, underscoring his impact on entomology and biodiversity conservation.
Kawahara is an adept communicator who extends his influence beyond the scientific community through media appearances and public talks. He has been featured in several documentaries and television shows, such as PBS’s “Nature's Sex, Lies, and Butterflies,” and has contributed to discussions on platforms like NPR. His TED Talk, “Why You Can Thank a Moth,” particularly underscores the ecological significance of moths and promotes public awareness about their roles in ecosystems.
Outside the laboratory, Kawahara enjoys a balanced lifestyle filled with diverse interests. He participates in sports like basketball and tennis and engages in leisure activities, including billiards and board games. His creative side is expressed through drawing and cooking, especially for his two children, reflecting his commitment to family and his passion for sharing knowledge and experiences.
Akito Kawahara’s career is a testament to his dedication to the study and conservation of Lepidoptera. Through his leadership at the McGuire Center, extensive research, and active public engagement, he has significantly contributed to the scientific community and broader public understanding of biodiversity. His work advances scientific knowledge and fosters a greater appreciation for the natural world, ensuring his impact will resonate for future generations.