Albert W. Bally
Geo-Legend: Seismic Interpretation of Complex Structure

Bally has dedicated his career to the complicated task of geophysical interpretation and analysis of complex subsurface structures. He realized that seismic reflection data was key to unraveling highly deformed rocks. His research on fold-thrust belts, basin analysis and the concept of Òorogenic floatÓ is classic work. Bally is a pioneer in Òthin-skinned tectonicsÓÑoriginally from research in the Canadian Rocky Mountain fold and thrust belt. His work has provided excellent guidance to geologists drilling for oil in deformed tectonic provinces.
Upon retirement from Shell after 27 years, he became Harry Carothers Weiss Professor of Geology at Rice University in Houston, Texas. He was department chairman at Rice early in his career, and established the departmentÕs geophysics program. His insight in melding geology and geophysics has been the hallmark of his research and teaching. A major focus of investigation has been on reconciliation of the complex structural geology of the earthÕs upper crust with lower crust and mantle. Bally is now Rice emeritus professor, yet very active in current research. For example, he is now co-editing a two-volume book called The Phanerozoic Geology of the World. 
Bally has been president of the Geological Society of America (1988). He has received many prestigious awards including the Sidney Powers Medal from the AAPG (1998).We are honored that Albert Bally is a Geo-Legends panelist because he helped geoscientists explain the deformation history of complex subsurface structures.