Francis was born in south Wales and went to school in Port Talbot. He was called up for military service after two years, commissioned in the Cheshire Regiment and served in the Mediterranean.[4] After three years in the Army, he graduated from University College, Swansea (now Swansea University) in 1949. He joined the Institute of Geological Sciences (now the British Geological Survey) where he rose through the ranks from field geologist in Scotland to Assistant Director for Northern England and Wales, based in Leeds.
In 1977 Francis was appointed Professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Leeds. He retired from his chair with the title Emeritus Professor in 1989 and was awarded an HonoraryFellowship of University College, Swansea in the same year.[2]
The Carboniferous period. Edward Howel Francis, B.SC., F.R.S.E., F.G.S. and Austin William Woodland, PH.D., F.G.S. Geological Society, London, Special Publications 1964, v. 1, p. 221-232.[7]
Caledonide volcanism in Britain and Ireland. C.J. Stillman and E.H. Francis. Geological Society, London, Special Publications 1979, v. 8, p. 555-577.[8]
Mid-Devonian to early Permian volcanism: Old World. E.H. Francis. Geological Society, London, Special Publications 1988, v. 38, p. 573-584.[9]
^Allen, P. M.; Survey, British Geological (1 January 2003). A geological survey in transition. British Geological Survey. p. 54. ISBN978-0-85272-426-2. Retrieved 18 May 2011. Professor Howel Francis, an ex-member of BGS staff, ...