How did you become interested in taxonomy?

I was always curious about living things. During my senior year of college, I showed my entomology professor specimens of sweat bees nesting in my driveway. Their biology was unknown and my professor encouraged me to document it as an undergraduate thesis project, which evolved into a PhD dissertation.

Were you surprised by the appointment to the ICZN?

Yes. I'm an opinionated individual, and my opinions don't go down too well with large segments of the taxonomic community.

I think the present system by which we name species is not policed effectively and has loopholes and ambiguities. For example, scientific names can be published in journals without peer review. Although that freedom is fine, the reality effectively permits taxonomic vandals to plagiarize others or publish without scientific merit.

The ICZN, a 28-member commission, is now trying to deal with this and other messy issues. I advocate substantial changes to the code, such as provisions for online-only publication, but others prefer the status quo, which makes for a contentious debate.

Have you had a career-defining moment?

I can't pick one moment. The thrill of making new discoveries drives my work. When you work with insects, virtually everything you do is a discovery because so few species have been studied in depth.

I have personally discovered at least 200 species, which have all been gratifying. In my current position I oversee one of the largest collections of insects in North America at the Entomology Research Museum at the University of California, Riverside.

What has been your biggest career challenge?

Entomology as a discipline doesn't get much respect or support. Unfortunately, no one seems to care about the estimated 10 million undocumented life forms on this planet. However, as a career choice, it is phenomenal. I help bring attention to these species. Unfortunately the current California budget turmoil has put my career at risk because I'm considered a staff member rather than a faculty member.

Do you think your ICZN appointment will help your career survive lay-offs?

As it is not a paid position, serving as a commissioner on the ICZN is ultimately a matter of prestige. But my standing at the university depends entirely on the interest of administrators overseeing my position. So I hope they will be sympathetic when assessing the nature and impact of my work. But I worry that entomology doesn't garner much respect.

What do you value most about the scientific process?

That in the long run, reason does win out. As a reasonable person, you like to see the proper outcome.