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François Émile Matthes (March 16, 1874 – June 21, 1948) was a pioneering geologist, topographer, and an authority on glaciers and climate change.

Born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Matthes was introduced to the natural sciences early in life, influenced by his family's frequent travels in the Alps and his fascination with fossils and mountaineering. His upbringing was marked by a robust education across Europe, where he became fluent in multiple languages and developed a strong foundation in technical drawing and engineering. Matthes and his twin brother Gerard immigrated to the United States in 1891 to study civil engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). After graduating with honors in 1895, both brothers became naturalized U.S. citizens in 1896.

Matthes began his career with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in 1896, initially as an instrument man and draftsman. Over the next several decades, Matthes played a significant role in mapping remote areas of the American West. He undertook extensive fieldwork across Wyoming, Montana, Arizona, and California, producing detailed topographic maps that later facilitated the establishment of national parks. His work in topography was distinguished by his meticulous field techniques and his insistence on integrating geological studies with mapping, a practice that enhanced the scientific value of his maps.

Matthes is best known for his contributions to the study of Yosemite Valley. Starting in 1905, he was tasked with resolving the long-standing debate between Josiah Whitney’s theory of block faulting and John Muir’s glacial hypothesis concerning the valley’s formation. Matthes’ research culminated in the 1930 publication Geologic History of the Yosemite Valley, which provided definitive evidence of the valley’s glacial origins. His work in Yosemite also introduced key glaciological concepts such as "nivation" and the identification of the "Little Ice Age," terms that remain central to modern geomorphology. Matthes’ contributions extended beyond research; he was a co-founder of the Association of American Geographers (AAG) and served as its president in 1933.

Throughout his career, Matthes balanced his scientific pursuits with public service, including leadership roles in Boy Scouts of America and participation in international geological associations. His extensive publications on geomorphology, glaciology, and topographic mapping continue to be referenced in geological studies. In recognition of his achievements, several geographic features, including Matthes Crest and Matthes Lake in Yosemite National Park, are named in his honor.