His reputation for excellence is vast and far-reaching. An entomologist, he is a world authority known for important research, including the discovery that certain species can help track the effects of environmental degradation and global warming. He served as head of the University of British Columbia's renowned Department of Zoology for 15 years and has held other leadership roles, notably president of the Entomological Society of Canada and of the Canadian Society of Zoologists. In addition, he is very active in promoting conservation, particularly in British Columbia, where he is involved with numerous biodiversity projects.