Duke Flags Lowered: Professor Emeritus Peter Haff, Distinguished Geologist, Dies

Peter K. Haff, a distinguished figure in the field of Earth and Climate Sciences and professor emeritus of geology, passed away on Feb. 3 in Chapel Hill after a long illness.

Haff received his BA from Harvard in 1966 and his PhD from the University of Virginia in 1970. He came to Duke in 1988 with joint appointments in the Pratt School of Engineering and the Nicholas School of the Environment. His leadership was marked by his tenure as the chair of the Earth and Ocean Sciences Division from 2001 to 2007, during which he shaped the growing department through keen insight and unwavering dedication.  

Haff was elected as a fellow of the prestigious American Geophysical Union (AGU), a testament to his significant impact on the field and his peers. Election as an AGU Fellow is an honor reserved for individuals who have made exceptional scientific contributions and attained eminence in the field of earth and space sciences.

Former Dean Bill Schlesinger summarized Peter Haff's multifaceted brilliance, describing him as part physicist, part engineer. Haff's pioneering work in field geomorphology, particularly in understanding the movement of sand and the formation of dunes, showcased his mastery of applying first principles of physics and computation to unravel complex natural processes.

While his early career was marked by investigations into natural phenomena, his intellectual curiosity led him to explore the profound impacts of human activities on the planet.

“Peter believed that the real change wrought by humans would be through computational technology,” Schlesinger said. “Eschewing biodiversity, he embraced the emerging concept of the Anthropocene, in which the planet will be dominated by human technology at speeds and impact that we cannot yet imagine. He foresaw a future where human technology would dominate, urging society to grapple with the unprecedented challenges ahead.”

Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Peter Haff will be remembered for his gentle demeanor and calming presence. Stanback Dean Lori Bennear recalls meeting Haff when first visiting the Nicholas School in 2003. “He was very welcoming to me, and we enjoyed chatting about my time as an undergraduate geology minor,” she said.

Even in retirement, Bennear said, Haff remained a familiar face in Grainger Hall, where his wisdom and camaraderie continued to enrich the Nicholas School community.

An event honoring Haff and his service to Duke and his field is being organized for later in the semester. Further information will be shared as it is available.

Duke flags on campus will be lowered Wednesday, Feb. 14, in Haff’s honor.