Barbara McClintock was an American scientist known for her groundbreaking work in genetics. Born on June 16, 1902, she discovered the phenomenon of jumping genes, or transposable elements, which are segments of DNA that can move within the genome. Her research provided significant insights into how genes can change positions and influence traits in organisms. McClintock's innovative work was largely unrecognized during her early career, but she eventually received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983 for her contributions to genetics. Her discoveries have had a lasting impact on the fields of genetics and molecular biology, influencing research on genetic engineering and plant breeding.