He is a phytoplankton ecologist, studying physical-biological interactions in the plankton, that is, how the physical processes in the ocean influence the growth and distribution patterns of phytoplankton. He was also recently honoured by being included in the first Studmuffins of Science calendar - look for Dr. November! Peter enjoys cooking, eating, singing, playing classical guitar and lute, making furniture, spending time with his wife, Sharon Franks, and dog, and occasionally going on white-water canoe trips. Recent adventures have included the Mountain River and Soper Rivers, run through Wanapitei Canoe Trip Centre.