Glen Himmelberg’s research career focused on studies of ophiolites in California, Oregon and Alaska; layered gabbro complexes in Alaska and Antarctica; and metamorphism of orogenic belts in southeastern Alaska. The goal of these studies was to obtain insights into the origin and evolution of the Earth’s crust. The U.S. Geological Survey supported all the above research. In recognition of Himmelberg’s contributions to the study of the Dufek Intrusion, Antarctica a linear group of nunataks 11.5 miles long in the Pensacola Mountains, Antarctica was officially named Himmelberg Hills.

Himmelberg retired from Geological Sciences in 2005. His geological research activities after retirement concentrated on completing research begun before retirement. Papers and maps published and in press since 2005 are listed below.

In 2008 at the request of Michael O’Brien, Dean of the College of Arts and Science, Himmelberg suspended retirement and was appointed Chair of the Department of Mathematics at MU.  He served in that position until September 1, 2015 at which time he returned to retirement.