Clough was known for his work in the field of earthquake engineering, and credited with the development and application of a mathematical method, finite element analysis, that has revolutionized numerical modeling of the physical world.
He also transformed the field through the development of fundamental theories, computational techniques, and experimental methods.
[citation needed] During his almost 40 years at Berkeley he taught, advised, and mentored numerous students.
Clough was professor emeritus of civil and environmental engineering at the University of California, Berkeley.
Dr. Clough's many honors include the Prince Philip Medal from the Royal Academy of Engineering in London.