Humberto Fuenzalida | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 27 March 1904 Curicó, Chile |
| Died | 24 February 1966 (aged 61) Chile |
| Alma mater | University of Chile |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Climatology Geology Physical geography Paleontology |
Humberto Fuenzalida Villegas (1904–1966) was a Chilean geologist, paleontologist and geographer. Fuenzalida headed in turn the geography and geology departments of the University of Chile,[1] being also founder of Sociedad Geológica de Chile, a professional society grouping Chile's geologists.[2] In 1938 he took charge of the geological and paleontological collection of Chilean National Museum of Natural History by request of Ricardo E. Latcham.[2] In 1948 he became director of the museum holding that post until 1964 when he was succeeded by Grete Mostny.[citation needed] Fuenzalida championed the establishment of a geology degree in the University of Chile, leading a successful effort in 1961.[1]
In the 1926–1930 period Fuenzalida studied in Sorbonne, Paris with teachers such as Emmanuel de Martonne, Émile Haug and León Lyteaud. He died in 1966 after a long period of illness.[2]