About me

I’m Travis, a physicist and professor at Duke University. When I’m not running experiments or teaching young scientists, I spend a lot of time thinking about how science works—and how it doesn’t. In my research, I use ultracold atoms to explore strange and fascinating quantum phenomena.

Beyond the lab, I write about the culture and practice of science—how it’s done, how it could be better, and why it matters. I’m also passionate about helping students succeed in my field and transition into meaningful careers. My blog explores the role of science in society, scientific integrity, and the messy, human side of research.

This blog is where I bring all of that together: the science, the system, and the people who make it happen. If that sounds interesting, stick around and consider subscribing to my newsletter. You’ll get new posts straight to your inbox, and it’s free to sign up. If you're curious about my research, you can learn more about it here.