Robert L. Garrels (1916 – 2006) was an American geochemist known for his pioneering research on the chemical composition of the Earth's crust, the ocean, and the atmosphere, as well as his contributions to the understanding of the modern carbon cycle.
Early life and education
- Born on October 23, 1916, in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
- Earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1938.
- Completed a Ph.D. in physical chemistry at the University of Illinois in 1942, under the supervision of H. B. Reese.
Academic and research career
- Joined the faculty of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1948 as an assistant professor of chemistry.
- Promoted to full professor in 1956 and later held the title of Distinguished Professor of Geochemistry.
- Served as director of the Institute of Geophysics and Planetary Physics at UCLA.
- Conducted extensive field and laboratory studies on the chemical composition of natural waters, rocks, and atmospheric gases.
- Developed quantitative methods for measuring trace elements in geological samples, influencing both academic research and industrial applications.
Key contributions
- Co‑authored the seminal textbook Chemical Oceanography (1955) with William H. McCorkle, which became a foundational reference in marine chemistry.
- Played a central role in establishing the field of modern geochemistry, emphasizing the dynamic exchange of elements among the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere.
- Contributed to early research on the anthropogenic increase of atmospheric carbon dioxide, outlining the potential implications for climate change.
- Participated in the development of the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Water Quality Assessment Program.
Professional affiliations and honors
- Elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the Geological Society of America (GSA).
- Served as president of the Geochemical Society (1965–1966).
- Received the GSA’s Distinguished Service Award (1974) and the AGU’s William Bowie Medal (1979) for outstanding contributions to geophysics and geochemistry.
- Awarded the V. M. Goldschmidt Award by the Geochemical Society in 1985, recognizing his lifetime achievements in geochemistry.
Personal life
- Married with two children.
- Known for his interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with chemists, geologists, oceanographers, and atmospheric scientists throughout his career.
Later years and legacy
- Retired from active teaching in 1986 but remained involved in research and mentorship until his death.
- Died on March 30, 2006, in Los Angeles, California.
- His work continues to influence contemporary studies of earth system science, particularly in the areas of carbon cycling, ocean chemistry, and environmental monitoring.
