Professor Rowan is the Pokémon Professor of Sandgem Town in Sinnoh, dedicating his research to unraveling the biological and existential dimensions of Pokémon evolution. His work probes its ties to Legendary Pokémon and debates whether the process signifies maturity or the fulfillment of an incomplete entity. This pursuit led to a four-year collaboration in Kanto with Professor Oak, co-developing an advanced Pokédex system prior to the Diamond & Pearl era. Though his stern demeanor and reserved expression project disciplined intensity, he balances this with patience and kindness, particularly toward novice Trainers. He mentors emerging researchers and guides youth through hands-on initiatives like the Pokémon Summer Academy, overseeing challenges with Ghost-type and Water-type Pokémon to cultivate problem-solving and teamwork. His role in launching Trainers’ journeys includes gifting starter Pokémon—Turtwig, Chimchar, or Piplup—exemplified when Dawn earns her Piplup after aiding in recapturing escaped lab specimens. He later advises her on team composition, stressing autonomy in recognizing her Pokémon’s potential. Beyond mentorship, he spearheads field efforts, from safeguarding Shieldon populations against poachers with Gary Oak to monitoring disturbances triggered by Team Galactic’s meddling with Sinnoh’s Legendaries. During crises, he balances pragmatism with compassion, evacuating colleagues amid Team Galactic’s assaults and partnering with Professor Carolina and Champion Cynthia to thwart the group’s schemes. His respect for varied training philosophies surfaces in allowing Ash and Paul to battle at his lab despite their clashing methods. Outside research, his lab’s candy-stocked fridge and playful sulking over Rage Candy Bar shortages in a post-League celebration reveal a sweet tooth and subtle humor. His legacy includes mentoring figures like Cynthia, whom he supplied with her first Pokémon and Pokédex, though the mentorship’s chronology remains undefined. In later endeavors, he continues guiding Dawn’s growth, advising her before her Hoenn departure, and supports newcomers like Shinko, solidifying his enduring influence as Sinnoh’s foundational mentor.