This interview with Dr. Peter Barr-Gillespie explores his scientific and administrative career. Barr-Gillespie recounts his early interest in science, beginning with chemistry at Reed College and evolving into neuroscience and sensory transduction research. He describes graduate work at the University of Washington on visual transduction, followed by a pivotal postdoctoral experience with Jim Hudspeth studying auditory hair cells. His faculty career began at Johns Hopkins before moving to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where he advanced research on hair cell molecular composition and later transitioned into leadership roles, including Chief Research Officer. The discussion covers mentorship influences, administrative challenges, impacts of COVID-19 on research, and recent political threats to science funding. Barr-Gillespie reflects on balancing science with family priorities, his contributions to understanding hair cell biology, and the enduring value of science as a self-correcting human endeavor.