Nature's 10 Honors Trailblazing Scientists and a Heroic Public-Health Champion

Breaking News: Natures 10 Recognizes Pioneering Scientists and a Courageous Public-Health Official A fired public-health official, a mosquito breeder, and a baby with a smile seen around the world are among the remarkable individuals chosen for Natures 10, a list compiled by Natures editors to highlight the most influential research and developments shaping our world. This year's selection acknowledges scientists pushing the boundaries of space exploration and oceanography, as well as a civil servant who stood up for evidence-based public-health policy in the face of unprecedented upheaval in the United States. Susan Monarez, the former director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was fired after a month on the job, sparking widespread criticism and concern about the politicization of public health. Achal Agrawal, a scientist who called out Indian universities for their high retraction rates, faced personal costs for his actions, but his efforts have sparked a necessary conversation about academic integrity. Tony Tyson, a physicist behind the groundbreaking Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, is leading the charge in understanding the mysteries of the universe. The immediate impact of these individuals' work is being felt across various fields, from public health to astrophysics. The firing of Susan Monarez has raised questions about the role of politics in public health policy, while Achal Agrawal's efforts have led to a renewed focus on academic integrity in India. Tony Tyson's work on the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. In the background, a complex web of factors has contributed to the current state of public health and scientific research. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for evidence-based policy and the importance of scientific integrity. The politicization of public health has led to a crisis of trust between scientists, policymakers, and the public. As the scientific community continues to push the boundaries of human knowledge, the work of these individuals serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, integrity, and dedication to the pursuit of truth. The Natures 10 list will continue to recognize the pioneers who are shaping our world, and their stories will inspire future generations of scientists and policymakers.