Svante Pääbo

Geneticist and Nobel Laureate in Physiology

Svante Pääbo - Geneticist and Nobel Laureate in Physiology
Born

April 20th, 1955
70 years ago

Category

Scientists & Innovators

Country

Sweden

Links & References

Contributions to the field of genetics include pioneering techniques in ancient DNA analysis. Achievements include sequencing the Neanderthal genome, providing insights into human evolution. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2022 for discoveries on how modern humans adapted to different environments through genetic inheritance.

Sequenced the Neanderthal genome

Pioneered techniques in ancient DNA extraction

Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2022

Other People Born on April 20th

Don Mattingly

Baseball player and manager of the Yankees
Born
April 20th, 1961 64 years ago

A professional baseball player, achieved prominence as a first baseman with the New York Yankees. Played for the Yankees from 1982 to 1995, earning six Gold Glove Awards and nine All-Star selections. Concluded career with a .307 batting average and was awarded the 1985 American League Most Valuable Player. Transitioned to coaching and managerial roles, serving as hitting coach for the Los Angeles Dodgers and later as manager of the Miami Marlins.

Continue Reading

Carmen Electra

Model and actress from Baywatch
Born
April 20th, 1972 53 years ago

Born in 1972, a career began as a model, leading to roles in television and film. Gained prominence with a role in the television series 'Baywatch'. Also appeared in the series 'Singled Out' and several films including 'Scary Movie' and 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2'. Known for a blend of modeling and acting in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

James Harcourt

English character actor in theatre
Born
April 20th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 78 years old

An English character actor who became prominent in the early 20th century. Harcourt frequently appeared on stage, particularly in London theatres, and earned acclaim for his performances in a variety of plays. His work extended to film, where he portrayed various distinct characters that showcased his range as an actor. Harcourt contributed significantly to both dramatic and comedic theatre, engaging audiences with his compelling performances until his retirement.

Continue Reading

Andy Serkis

English actor and director, motion capture pioneer
Born
April 20th, 1964 61 years ago

An English actor and director, contributions to the film industry include pioneering motion capture technology. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy as Gollum and in 'Planet of the Apes' as Caesar. His directorial work includes 'Breathe' and the adaptation of 'The Jungle Book'.

Continue Reading

Peter S. Beagle

Author of 'The Last Unicorn'
Born
April 20th, 1939 86 years ago

An American author and screenwriter, Beagle gained prominence with the publication of 'The Last Unicorn' in 1968, which became a classic in fantasy literature. The story was adapted into an animated film in 1982, further cementing its status in popular culture. Beagle's works often explore themes of identity, loss, and the passage of time. He has also contributed to television and film, writing for adaptations of his own and others’ stories.

Continue Reading

Rose of Lima

Peruvian mystic and canonized saint
Born
April 20th, 1586 439 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1617 407 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1586, this individual became a prominent mystic and a saint within the Catholic Church. Recognized for exceptional piety and devotion, she dedicated her life to prayers and charity in Lima, Peru. Her commitment to serving the less fortunate included caring for the sick and poor, often undertaking severe austerities. In 1617, she was the first person in the Americas to be canonized as a saint, reflecting her importance in Catholic devotion. This individual’s feast day is celebrated on August 23.

Continue Reading