Georges Matheron: Founder of Spatial Statistics

Abstract

Originally a geologist, Professor Georges Matheron (1930-2000) became increasingly mathematical in his approach to problem-solving. He made fundamental contributions to science by establishing new theoretical frameworks in spatial statistics, random sets, mathematical morphology, and the physics of random media. He inspired numerous other scientists first in France and later worldwide. His ideas and methods have been tested extensively and continue to be applied widely both inside and outside of geoscience. With Ronald Fisher and John Tukey, Georges Matheron belongs to the most influential mathematical statisticians of the twentieth century.