Let’s get real: science is the greatest fandom. Ditch the comic-book heroes—these genius individuals actually changed the world, rearranged what we know about life and the universe, and paved the way for the tech, ideas, and pop culture that we take for granted today. From decoding the brain to explaining space, these are the individuals who took curiosity and made it relevant. Buckle up as we count down, in reverse order, the 10 greatest scientists who made their mark in history, beginning with some of the younger voices before getting to the legends.
10. Katharine Hayhoe
Climate scientist and evangelical Christian Katharine Hayhoe is determined to demystify climate science for all. She’s the host of PBS’ Global Weirding series, in which she addresses global warming and ecological matters in a manner that resonates even with audiences who would otherwise tune out scientific messages. By blending hard facts with compassion and communication ability, Hayhoe has turned science not only informative but also relatable, proving you can care about the planet without leaving people behind.
9. Raychelle Burks
Analytical chemist and self-proclaimed pop culture geek Raychelle Burks brings the world of molecules to life for enthusiasts and students alike. She pairs chemistry with geeky fandoms such as Game of Thrones, dissecting the chemistry of poisons, dyes, and common reactions. With her blog, podcast, and video work, Burks renders chemistry understandable and entertaining, demonstrating that science doesn’t have to be scary—it can be totally crazy while still being educational.
8. Upulie Divisekera
Molecular biologist, media personality, and Twitter science champion Upulie Divisekera has a gift for distilling complicated science down to shareable, bite-sized wisdom. From the new research on dinosaurs to intriguing explorations of brain transplants, she introduces the general public to a broad array of scientific ideas with humor and intelligence. Divisekera’s endeavors are a reminder that science is not laboratory-exclusive—it’s something anyone can examine, challenge, and enjoy.
7. Emily Graslie
YouTube phenom and naturalist master, Emily Grasl, ie has taken viewers on a journey into the dark recesses of nature. From trekking through the Amazonian rainforests to performing experiments in a museum laboratory to detailing the science behind the mundane, Graslie has a talent for making curiosity an adventure. Her energy is contagious, and she shows that science can be practical, dirty, and absolutely captivating.
6. Carl Hart
Neuroscientist Carl Hart dispels the myths and misinformation surrounding the use of drugs and promotes evidence-based policy and social justice. In his memoir High Price and on media appearances and lectures, Hart addresses prejudice and misinformation, demonstrating how science can transform society and public policy. His writing serves as a reminder that seeking knowledge can be an equally effective force for change.
5. Brian Cox
Physicist, broadcaster, and complete science rockstar, Brian Cox, can get the cosmos to feel exciting and within reach. Through TV programs, radio shows, and public talks, Cox has brought complicated physics to an international audience with excitement and understanding. From black holes to particle physics, he shows that the universe is not something we learn about—it’s something we can marvel at, and he gets everyone to want to stretch out and touch the stars.
4. E.O. Wilson
The late E.O. Wilson, Pulitzer Prize-winning biologist, transformed our understanding of the natural world, from ants to ecosystems to human social behavior. His groundbreaking work in sociobiology and biodiversity has influenced countless scientists and conservationists, and his writings invite readers to ponder the intricate relationships that sustain life on Earth. Wilson’s legacy reminds us that even the smallest creatures can teach the biggest lessons.
3. Neil deGrasse Tyson
Astrophysicist, educator, and charismatic heir to Carl Sagan, Neil deGrasse Tyson has made the universe accessible to millions. Hosting Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey and appearing on myriad media platforms, Tyson has a remarkable ability to balance scientific accuracy with accessible narrative. He encourages us to remember that the universe is big, mysterious, and utterly captivating, and that we are all stakeholders in the exploration of it.
2. Carl Sagan
If you’ve ever whispered “billions and billions,” you’re channeling Carl Sagan, the legendary astronomer who made the cosmos feel intimate and personal. His 1980 miniseries Cosmos: A Personal Voyage inspired generations to look up at the night sky with wonder, curiosity, and reverence. Sagan wasn’t just teaching science—he was cultivating a sense of cosmic perspective and human responsibility, showing that understanding the universe can make life on Earth more meaningful.
1. Oliver Sacks
Neurologist and master storyteller Oliver Sacks made the enigmas of the human brain into stories that enthralled both the public imagination and scientific interest. Books such as The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat went beyond unusual neurological disorders to treat them with humanity and fascination, mixing science and human experience. Sacks made the workings of the mind accessible, converting clinical case histories into tales that resonate far wider than the medical sphere.
From climate science to neurology to astrophysics, these thinkers remind us that curiosity, creativity, and tenacity can transform the world. Whether they are uncovering secrets in our brains or revealing mysteries of the universe, these 10 scientists show that real-life heroes don’t wear capes—they ask questions, explore, and inspire us all.