Robert I. Tilling

Born in Shanghai, China, in 1935, Robert I. Tilling later grew up in southern California near San Diego. He studied at Pomona College and earned a Ph.D. in geology from Yale University before joining the U.S. Geological Survey in 1962.

Tilling became especially known for his work in volcanology. He served as scientist-in-charge of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory from 1975 to 1976, spent decades with the USGS, and later became an emeritus scientist. His career focused on volcano hazards, monitoring, and public understanding of volcanic activity.

He also wrote for broad audiences as well as specialists. USGS publications associated with his work include accessible introductions to plate tectonics and volcanic eruptions, reflecting a gift for turning complex geologic processes into clear, readable explanations.