Nature, one of the world’s most respected scientific publications, has released its annual list of the ten individuals who most influenced science in 2024. Titled Nature’s 10, this year’s selection highlights figures who, through transformative discoveries, battles for justice, or creative solutions, have redefined the course of knowledge in their fields.

The list, published on Monday (December 9), features scientists, researchers, activists, and professionals from diverse disciplines who stood out for tackling global challenges and driving meaningful change. “Nature’s 10 recognizes the year’s major advances in science and tells the stories of the people who made them possible. It is curated by Nature’s editors to spotlight important trends in science, technology, engineering, and medicine while showcasing how these individuals shape the world around us,” the publication explains.

The text emphasizes the diversity and uniqueness of the chosen figures: “A fraud buster, a nuclear clockmaker, and a virus hunter. These are just some of the notable figures selected for this year’s Nature’s 10.” Below, meet the individuals who comprise this list and understand how they contributed to science and society in 2024.

1. Ekkehard Peik – Father Time
German physicist Ekkehard Peik is a world leader in nuclear clock research, a technology that could surpass the precision of atomic clocks, currently the most advanced in the world. While atomic clocks rely on the vibration of electrons around atoms, nuclear clocks use the vibration of the atomic nucleus, promising unprecedented accuracy.
This innovation could revolutionize time measurement, with direct impacts on areas such as satellite navigation, telecommunications, and even the detection of physical phenomena like gravitational waves. Peik’s contributions represent a monumental leap in metrology, bringing science closer to achieving absolute precision.

2. Kaitlin Kharas – Champion of Fair Pay
Kaitlin Kharas, a doctoral student in Canada, became a symbol of the fight for valuing academic labor. In a historic movement, she helped lead a national campaign that resulted in the largest salary increase in 20 years for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the country.
The campaign not only secured better financial conditions but also sparked a global debate about the precariousness of young researchers, particularly in contexts where stipends and salaries often fail to cover living costs. Kharas inspired students worldwide, reinforcing the importance of fair policies for those at the foundation of scientific production.

3. Li Chunlai – Guardian of the Lunar Rock
A prominent geologist, China’s Li Chunlai played a central role in the Chang’e-6 lunar mission, which brought back unprecedented samples from the Moon’s far side to Earth. This mission is historic, as the Moon’s far side remains a largely unexplored territory full of information about the formation of the solar system.
Li leads efforts to analyze these samples, which could reveal crucial details about lunar evolution and help answer fundamental questions about the origins of Earth and the Moon. Furthermore, Li Chunlai’s work underscores China’s advances in space exploration, solidifying the country as a global leader in the field.

4. Anna Abalkina – Fraud Hunter
Russian scientist Anna Abalkina has become one of the most important figures in the fight against academic fraud and scientific fake news. Her skill in using data analysis tools to identify fake articles and manipulated publications has strengthened the pillars of academic integrity at a critical moment for global science.
With the increasing spread of misinformation, especially in sensitive areas such as health and climate change, Abalkina’s work is essential for ensuring that science-based decisions rely on legitimate data. Her efforts inspire other researchers to proactively combat misinformation.

5. Huji Xu – Bold Physician
Chinese physician and researcher Huji Xu dared to adopt a revolutionary approach to treating autoimmune diseases, a field still surrounded by uncertainties. Using experimental techniques, Xu achieved promising results that opened new perspectives for conditions previously considered difficult to treat.
Although the boldness of his research has drawn criticism and raised ethical questions, the positive impact on patients who previously had no alternatives is undeniable. Xu symbolizes the role of scientific courage in advancing medical treatments and offering hope to millions.

6. Wendy Freedman – Cosmic Ranger
Astrophysicist Wendy Freedman is at the center of a decades-long scientific debate: the rate of the universe’s expansion. The tension between measurements obtained through different methods has challenged one of modern cosmology’s most fundamental theories.
Freedman leads efforts to reconcile these conflicting data, using state-of-the-art telescopes and innovative techniques. Her research not only refines our understanding of the universe but also points to larger questions about its origin and fate.

7. Muhammad Yunus – Nation Builder
Known as the “father of microcredit” and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, economist Muhammad Yunus took on an unexpected role in 2024: interim leader of Bangladesh. Amid political and social challenges, Yunus carries the hopes of millions of young people seeking a fairer and more sustainable future.
His history of economic innovation, focused on social inclusion, suggests that he could transform Bangladesh’s political leadership into a model for other developing nations.

8. Placide Mbala – Virus Hunter
Virologist Placide Mbala, from the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a central figure in combating infectious disease outbreaks, including mpox. He has warned the global community about the risks of future pandemics, based on data and observations from local outbreaks that are often overlooked.
Despite the urgency of his warnings, Mbala faces challenges in mobilizing international attention and resources. His work highlights the importance of listening to voices from historically neglected regions.

9. Cordelia Bähr – Climate Crusader
Swiss lawyer Cordelia Bähr made history by leading a group of elderly women in a legal battle against her country’s insufficient climate policies. The victory forced Switzerland to adopt stricter measures to combat climate change, creating a precedent that could inspire similar actions in other countries.
Bähr represents a growing movement of climate activism challenging governments to address the environmental crisis with urgency.

10. Rémi Lam – AI Weather Detective
French scientist Rémi Lam is revolutionizing weather forecasting by integrating artificial intelligence into climate models. His research allows for greater precision in predicting extreme events such as storms and heat waves, helping save lives and mitigate damage.
Lam’s work highlights how AI is transforming traditional areas of science, expanding possibilities for addressing climate change.

The Nature’s 10 list of 2024 reflects the spirit of ever-evolving science. Each selected personality exemplifies the courage, creativity, and dedication required to tackle today’s challenges and shape a more promising future. Whether in the pursuit of precision, justice, or sustainability, these figures prove that science remains an essential force for humanity.