Barbara L. McClintock

Barbara L. McClintock was a pioneering geneticist known for discovering "jumping genes," or transposable elements, in maize (corn). Her research revealed that parts of DNA can move within the genome, affecting gene activity and variation. This groundbreaking work challenged previous ideas about genetics and helped us better understand how genes are regulated. McClintock's contributions earned her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983. Her discoveries have had a profound impact on genetics, genetics research, and our understanding of genetic diversity and stability.