Barbara McClintock

Barbara McClintock was an American scientist who made groundbreaking discoveries in genetics. She is best known for her work on "jumping genes," which are segments of DNA that can move around within and between genomes. This process, known as transposition, showed that genes are not fixed in place but can change positions, influencing how traits are inherited. Her research significantly advanced our understanding of genetics, evolution, and plant breeding. McClintock’s work was initially overlooked but later recognized, earning her the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983, highlighting the importance of her contributions to biology and medicine.