Edward Luther Kessel (April 27, 1904 – September 30, 1997) was an American biologist known for his work as an entomologist and writings to reconcile science and religion.
[1] Kessel began studies for the ministry at Greenville College in Illinois and Church Divinity School of the Pacific before finishing his B.S.
[1][2] Kessel began his teaching career at Marquette University (1927-1932), but he spent most of his professional career in San Francisco as a faculty member at the University of San Francisco (1936-1974), and as curator of the entomological collections at the California Academy of Sciences (1945-1959).
[2][3] Kessel is considered to be one of the leading authorities on the Platypezidae or flat-footed flies, with entomologists mailing specimens to him from around the globe.
The University of San Francisco annually bestows the Edward L. Kessel Award to an undergraduate student with high potential for a professional career in the biological sciences.