I study animal communication, using birds as a model system for understanding the function and evolution of natural communication system.

My wife, Susan Peters, is my long-time collaborator in science.

Susan and I love to cook and, when there isn't a pandemic, we typically have students over to our house for dinner on an almost weekly basis.

I play trombone and tuba, and played in the Duke Pep Band at basketball games for about 10 years, while I was also serving as dean and vice provost for undergraduate education.

I juggle flaming clubs and I believe I can teach anyone to juggle.