Robert has over two decades of experience using genetic methods to identify species. His research interests are diverse and multidisciplinary, addressing both basic questions (e.g. concerning biodiversity, conservation, molecular ecology) and applied technical issues concerning biosurveillance and food security. His undergraduate studies in biology were undertaken at Eastern Michigan University, followed by a PhD at the University of Oregon and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the American Museum of Natural History. Robert is a Professor at the University of Guelph in the Department of Integrative Biology.