Contemporary · Sweden and Germany
Svante Paabo
Born 1955
Their story
Why Svante Paabo matters
Paabo developed methods for recovering and analysing DNA from ancient bones.
Svante Paabo worked in Sweden and Germany during the Contemporary era. Today's researchers can combine powerful computers, international teams and extremely precise instruments, while also considering how discoveries affect society and the planet.
Work in genetics depends on close attention to living systems and evidence that can be compared. Svante Paabo's story shows how careful records and testable explanations can gradually improve what people know about life and health.
Key discovery or invention
Sequencing ancient hominin DNA.
Svante Paabo's central contribution was sequencing ancient hominin DNA.
The breakthrough connected observations of living things with a clearer explanation of how a body, organism or ecosystem works. Evidence could then guide better questions, comparisons and, in some cases, treatments.
Why it still matters: Modern biology and medicine continue this cycle of observation, testing, revision and careful use of evidence. Svante Paabo's work is one chapter in that continuing story rather than the final word.
His team's work revealed Denisovans and showed that many people carry Neanderthal DNA.