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Georg August GoldfussGerman paleontologist and zoologist.
Date of Birth: 18.04.1782
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Georg August Goldfuss: German Paleontologist and Zoologist
- Scientific Expeditions and Academic Career
- Appointment at Bonn University
- Paleontological Studies
- Later Years and Death
Georg August Goldfuss: German Paleontologist and Zoologist
Early Life and EducationGeorg August Goldfuss was born on April 18, 1782, in Thurnau, Germany. He initially studied medicine and surgery at the Medico-Surgical College in Berlin. However, he later transferred to Erlangen University, where he earned his doctorate in philosophy in 1804.
Scientific Expeditions and Academic Career
After graduating, Goldfuss embarked on a scientific expedition to South Africa. Upon his return in 1806, he joined Erlangen University as a lecturer in zoology. In 1811, he was promoted to associate professor and went on to become a full professor of zoology in 1818.
Appointment at Bonn University
Goldfuss was subsequently appointed professor of zoology and mineralogy at the University of Bonn. He served as the university's rector from 1839 to 1840.
Paleontological Studies
Throughout his career, Goldfuss dedicated himself to studying fossil animals in Germany. He collaborated with the German paleontologist Count Georg von Münster to publish the monumental work "Petrefacta germaniae" (1826-1844). This publication aimed to illustrate all invertebrate fossils in Germany but remained incomplete, covering only sponges, corals, echinoderms, and a portion of mollusks.
Later Years and Death
Georg August Goldfuss passed away on October 2, 1848, in Poppelsdorf, Germany. Despite his untimely death, his contributions to the field of paleontology continue to be recognized and celebrated.
