author
William A. (William Alvin) Clemens
1932–2020
A leading expert on early mammals, he spent decades helping scientists understand how mammals evolved during the age of dinosaurs. His work at UC Berkeley and the University of California Museum of Paleontology made him an important figure in vertebrate paleontology.
1 Audiobook
Records of the Fossil Mammal Sinclairella, Family Apatemyidae, From the Chadronian and Orellan
by William A. (William Alvin) Clemens
About the author
Born in Berkeley, California, on May 15, 1932, William Alvin Clemens Jr. became one of the best-known specialists in fossil mammals. He studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and later built a long academic career there as a professor and curator associated with the University of California Museum of Paleontology.
Clemens was especially known for research on Mesozoic mammals and the early evolution of mammals, work that helped shape how scientists understand life during and after the age of dinosaurs. He also served in leadership roles at Berkeley, including as director of the museum and chair of the Department of Paleontology.
He died in Berkeley on November 17, 2020. Remembered as both a scholar and teacher, he left a lasting mark on paleontology through his research, curation, and decades of work with students and colleagues.