My mathematical research interests include finite and infinite dimensional vector spaces, infinite matrices, and generalized inverses of linear operators.

However, being at a liberal arts institution, I have been able to focus some of my energy on an area more broadly appreciated by people from a diverse set of fields: mathematical logic and set theory.  Even the uninitiated can enjoy parts of these topics after a brief introduction, and the deeper issues are philosophical and scientific as well as mathematical. 

For those who know a little mathematics and enjoy logic, here is a fun and interesting link:

http://us.metamath.org/

I also enjoy reading popular physics, and as much "real" physics as I have time for.  I am especially interested in some of the philosophical implications of quantum mechanics and questions about the origin of the universe.

I am curious about whether or not mathematics can offer insight into ultimate truth, i.e. some type of "truth" which may still be "true" under any possible configuration of matter (that is, not just this earth, this universe, etc.). Such questions lead me back into the realms of physics and philosophy.

But mathematics may also have something to say about the nature of the mind, and it is this connection which brought me to study cognitive science, a topic to which I was already drawn. Cognitive science brings together elements of philosophy, psychology, neuroscience (and more generally biology), mathematics, computer science, and linguistics. I look for any excuse to discuss such topics with friends, colleagues, students. An occasional January term or C/I course on the mind and consciousness gives me an opportunity for such exploration.

I have many non-academic interests. I enjoy traveling, hiking, and camping. I like to cook and to eat good food. I enjoy reading, especially "good" fiction, historical accounts (a particular interest is World War II), popular science (topics such as the nature of the universe, medical advances, artificial intelligence, cognitive science), studies of religions.  I like to spend time with family and friends.