Dr. Roger Burrows is Will's adoptive father, a scientist who loves researching the past as well as digging his way to it. He is the major influence on his son's interests, and both of them enjoy archaeology and digging. He discovers a way into the Colony, and eventually heads deeper. Will and Chester go after him, and in the process, have many adventures in the Colony and the Deeps. Dr. Burrows wants to become a great explorer, and always keeps his journal with him during his travels.