Gregor Mendel

Father of modern genetics, revolutionizing biological inheritance theories through pea plant experiments.

Gregor Johann Mendel (1822–1884) is celebrated as the founder of modern genetics. His groundbreaking work on pea plants established fundamental laws of heredity, challenging pre-existing notions of blending inheritance. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, Mendel's experiments laid the foundation for the field of genetics.

Mendel's meticulous pea plant studies between 1856 and 1863 revealed patterns of dominant and recessive traits. He introduced concepts like genes (though he called them 'factors') and demonstrated statistical regularity in biological inheritance. His work was later rediscovered in 1900, catalyzing the modern synthesis of genetics and evolutionary biology.

His legacy includes Mendelian inheritance principles, which remain cornerstones of genetic research. Mendel's ability to apply mathematical rigor to biology made him a true pioneer who made a difference by bridging disciplines and reshaping scientific thought.