What he does
My research focuses on exploring the ecology of the fishes and crustaceans that live in Hawaii's streams, rivers, and estuaries so that measures aimed at conserving these species will be as efficient and effective as possible.

How he got into science
When I was growing up in Hilo, I spent most of my free time fishing, hunting, and diving. For some reason, I was never content with just observing nature. I was always asking myself and annoying my friends with questions like "why are there more aweoweo than menpachi at this spot?" or "why are the prawns in this stream so much bigger than the prawns in the next stream over?" Now, it is actually my job to spend my days asking and trying to answer those kinds of questions.

Favorite accomplishments
Getting accepted to attend graduate school at the Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science was a big accomplishment for me. Since starting grad school, I've been able to travel to places I never thought I would get to go, learn a multitude of new things, and work with some of the world's most talented and fun biologists.

In his free time
I try to get "away from it all" whenever possible, whether that means slogging through a Louisiana salt marsh to fly fish or jumping in the water at South Point to try and spear some fish (emphasis on the word 'try'). I also love to play my guitar.