Ilya Tëmkin is an interdisciplinary scientist with a deep interest in the general theory and philosophy of biology, particularly through the lens of hierarchy theory. An expert on bivalve mollusks, he investigates how ecology, history, and development shape the evolution of organic form. His research also extends to cultural evolution, drawing parallels between biological evolution and the transmission of information in human culture, an interest fueled by his expertise in musical instruments. Dr. Tëmkin teaches biology at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and George Mason University.