John W. Wells
John West Wells (July 15, 1907 — January 12, 1994) was an American paleontologist, biologist and geologist who focused his research on corals. [1] [2] [3] He was notable for, among other things, proving that the rotational period of the earth undergoes periodic changes.[2] The National Academies of Science said that Wells "made an indelible mark on the world of paleontology".[2] The Independent called Wells "the leading authority on modern and fossil corals, a noteworthy contributor on coral reefs and atolls". Wells was Professor of Geology, Ohio State University,[1] Professor of Geology, Cornell University,[1] President, Paleontological Society,[1] a member of the National Academy of Sciences.[1]
Chronology
- 15 July 1907: born Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- 1928: graduate from the University of Pittsburgh
- 1932: married Elizabeth Baker
- 1933: Ph.D. from Cornell University[1]
- 1938-48: Professor of Geology, Ohio State University[1]
- 1948-73: Professor of Geology, Cornell University[1]
- 1961-62: President, Paleontological Society[1]
- 1968: elected to the National Academy of Sciences[1]
- 12 January 1994: died Ithaca, New York