Robert I. Tilling

author

Robert I. Tilling

b. 1935

A veteran volcanologist and science writer, he helped turn dramatic geologic events into clear, engaging explanations for general readers. His work draws on decades of research with the U.S. Geological Survey, including studies of volcanic hazards in the United States and abroad.

1 Audiobook

Volcanoes

Volcanoes

by Robert I. Tilling

About the author

Born in Shanghai, China, Robert I. Tilling grew up in southern California and went on to earn a BA from Pomona College and a PhD in geology from Yale University. He joined the U.S. Geological Survey in 1962 and built a long career in volcanology.

USGS biographical material says he began working at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory in 1972 and became its Scientist-in-Charge in 1975. He later served in leadership roles at USGS headquarters and was in charge of USGS studies surrounding the May 18, 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, one of the most significant volcanic events in modern U.S. history.

Alongside his research, Tilling wrote for broad audiences as well as specialists. He is known for helping explain plate tectonics, volcanoes, eruptive processes, and geologic hazards in a way that makes complex Earth science feel vivid and understandable.