Iowa Geological Survey and IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering research engineer Keith Schilling has been officially named Iowa's State Geologist.

Schilling, whose expertise is in hydrogeology, had served as acting state geologist for about a year before his appointment was officially approved by the Board of Regents, State of Iowa.

Schilling has three decades of experience as a geologist in Iowa and also serves as an adjunct assistant professor in the UI Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. He holds a master’s degree from Iowa State University and a PhD from the University of Iowa.

“The Iowa Geological Survey is doing important work that serves Iowans in many ways,” Schilling says. “I’m proud to be selected for this position and to lead a program that has such a long and storied history in the state. It’s an honor and a privilege that I take very seriously.”

Since 2014, the Iowa Geological Survey has been a part of IIHR at the UI. The Iowa Geological Survey provides Iowans with expertise in subsurface geology and groundwater resources. It also executes bedrock mapping statewide, maintains a repository of geologic samples and data, conducts geologic research, and organizes a wide range of outreach and educational activities.