Daniel Carleton Gajdusek
Physician and Nobel Prize laureate
Physician and Nobel Prize laureate
2008
17 years ago — 85 years old
Scientists & Innovators
United States
Contributions to the understanding of prion diseases through research on kuru and its transmission among the Fore people of Papua New Guinea were significant. Pioneered studies on the pathology and epidemiology of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies. Worked at the National Institutes of Health and found links between infectious agents and neurodegenerative disorders. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for discoveries related to kuru.
Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976
Conducted groundbreaking research on kuru
Played a significant role in the Australian mining industry. Served as the managing director of Western Mining Corporation from 1986 to 1997. Held leadership positions in various industry associations and contributed to the development of mining policies. Engaged in philanthropic activities supporting education and healthcare initiatives.
Continue ReadingAn architect and politician from Malta, contributed significantly to the development of urban planning and architecture in the region. Served as a member of the Maltese Parliament and held key positions within various governmental bodies. Worked on numerous projects that shaped the architectural landscape of Malta, focusing on modern design and sustainability. Advocated for arts and culture, promoting local architectural heritage and improvements in public spaces.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1924, contributions included a medical career as a prominent surgeon and subsequent leadership within the Latter-day Saints Church. As president of the Church, focused on global outreach and doctrinal development. Prior to church leadership, served as a general surgeon and performed innovative heart surgeries, contributing significantly to the field of cardiothoracic surgery. Gained recognition for extensive academic work and carried out numerous humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingAn influential poet and playwright, contributed significantly to the Black Arts Movement. Wrote numerous poetry collections, including 'Homegirls and Handgrenades' and 'Shake Loose My Skin.' Activism focused on racial and social justice issues, advocating for peace and equality. Involved in various organizations promoting civil rights throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Held several academic positions and served as a mentor to many emerging writers. Work has been widely recognized and appreciated in literary and activist circles.
Continue ReadingAn influential Islamic theologian and author, this individual contributed significantly to contemporary Islamic thought. Born in Egypt, focused on issues of reform and modernization within Islam. Played a prominent role in the establishment of the International Union of Muslim Scholars. Engaged in discussing a wide variety of religious, political, and social topics through various media outlets. Published numerous books on Islamic jurisprudence and has been an advocate for the application of Sharia in modern contexts.
Continue ReadingContributed significantly to the field of genetics and entomology. Focused on the study of honeybees and their genetic diversity. Played a key role in the introduction of the African honeybee to Brazil. Actively engaged in agricultural and ecological research, with a strong focus on the impact of genetic selection in various species.
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