Barbara McClintock

My work has always been driven by curiosity.

It's essential to have a deep understanding of the organism you're studying.

The genome is a living, breathing entity.

I've always been an independent thinker.

The most important thing is to ask the right questions.

I never felt like an outsider, even when my ideas were not widely accepted.

The genome is a remarkable system of control and communication.

My work is a continuous process of discovery.

You have to be willing to follow the data, wherever it leads.

I've always been drawn to the mysteries of life.

The genome is not just a collection of genes; it's an integrated system.

It's a wonderful journey of exploration.

I've always believed in the power of observation.

The genome is a highly adaptable and responsive entity.

My work is a reflection of my deep respect for nature.

When you're really interested in something, you don't have to be pushed. The interest just pulls you.

I was just so interested in what I was doing, I could hardly wait to get up in the morning and get at it. One of my friends, a geneticist, said I was a child at play.

I never thought of myself as a woman in science. I thought of myself as a scientist.

I had a feeling that I was going to be doing something important. I didn't know what it was, but I knew it was going to be important.

I just kept doing what I was doing, because I knew I was right.