By DAWNE LEIKER

dleiker@dailynews.net

Brown University professor of biology and author of "Finding Darwin's God: A Scientist's Search for Common Ground Between God & Evolution" and "Only a Theory: Evolution and the Battle for America's Soul," will bring his unique perspective on science and religion to Thursday night's Science Cafe.

Kenneth R. Miller will speak on the topic "God, Darwin, and Global Warming. Does Science Really Matter in America Today" at 7 p.m. at Cafe Semolino, 110 W. 11th.

An authority on Darwinian evolution theory, Miller represents the position few scientists openly share: that God exists. In his book, "Finding Darwin's God," Miller contends that evolution is the story of origins, as is the Judeo-Christian story of creation.

"The conflict between these two versions of our history is real, and I do not doubt for a second that it needs to be addressed. What I do not believe is that the conflict is unresolvable."

The book illustrates his opinion with examples from astronomy, geology, physics and molecular biology and also addresses issues of free will in a planned universe.

Miller has worked to support pro-science candidates in the political arena and has campaigned for school board and education candidates who support teaching evolution in Kansas and Ohio.

Known for his appearances on the Comedy Central television show "The Colbert Report," Miller also has made many appearances on C-SPAN debating proponents of creationism and intelligent design.

Science Cafe organizer Cheryl Shepherd-Adams said participants in Thursday's event can look forward to an engaging evening.

"The interesting part of Science Cafe is the discussion, where we learn from each other," she said.

She said Miller's presentation will be particularly timely as he will speak about the importance of science-related issues in the upcoming primary and general elections.

"I'm not sure if people realize how many science decisions candidates have to make after they're elected," Shepherd-Adams said.