Robert R. Herrick

Dr. Robert R. Herrick is a Research Professor at the Institute of Northern Engineering within the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he has been employed since July 2004. Previously, he was a Staff Scientist at the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston from 1993 to 2004. His academic appointments include teaching positions at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Houston - Clear Lake, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, and Rice University.

• Ph.D. in Geophysics from Southern Methodist University (1993)
• M.S. in Geophysics from University of Houston (1988)
• Dual B.S. degrees in Geophysics and Physics from Texas A&M University (1985)

Dr. Herrick specializes in planetary geology with a focus on Venus and impact cratering processes across the solar system. His research combines imagery, topography, and geoid data to understand how interior planetary processes shape surface features. He has developed significant databases of impact craters on Venus and Mercury that are now available through JMARS. His work on Venusian volcanism using Magellan mission data has recently yielded evidence of surface changes on Venusian volcanoes.

His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on comparative planetary geology, particularly examining impact crater morphology across different planetary bodies (Venus, Mercury, and Mars) and the evolution of volcanic features. His research integrates remote sensing data with geological analysis to understand planetary surface processes.

• Appeared on The UnXplained: Mysteries of the Universe (History Channel, 2024) discussing Venus
• Featured in NOVA's Solar System series (2024) on volcanic worlds
• Developed Stereo Matching Tool (SMT) for planetary image analysis
• Created global databases of impact craters now available through JMARS

Dr. Herrick is actively involved in science outreach, having managed outreach programs at the Lunar and Planetary Institute and the Geophysical Institute. He has guest-lectured to diverse audiences and oversaw the development of a statewide traveling digital portable planetarium program in Alaska. His commitment to public science communication is evident through his media appearances and educational initiatives.