Ronald Blom is the Lead Scientist for the Terrestrial Sciences Research Element, and the Discipline Program Manager for Geology and Natural Hazards, at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He earned his Ph.D. in Geological Remote Sensing at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

His expertise as a Remote Sensing Geologist led to his being the co-discoverer of the fabled "Lost City of Ubar", an ancient desert outpost where camel caravans were assembled to transport frankincense across the Arabian desert.

Ron's SRTM investigation focuses on applying the technique of radar interferometry to the measurement of ground subsidence in oil producing areas. This type of surface change can create serious threats to natural and man-made structures. Accurate measurements can help us to understand and prevent these threats.