Wu Mingzhu

ChinascientistFemaleb. 19289.0Global Dominance: 0.03%

Wu Mingzhu, affectionately known as 'Grandma Gua,' is a renowned Chinese agricultural scientist and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. Born in 1928, she has dedicated her life to the research and cultivation of melons, particularly in Xinjiang, China. After graduating from Southwest Agricultural College, she was inspired to contribute to the development of local agriculture in the region. Wu faced numerous challenges in her early career, including harsh environmental conditions, yet she persevered, leading to the discovery and classification of numerous melon varieties. Over her illustrious career spanning several decades, she developed over 30 new varieties, significantly impacting the agricultural landscape. Despite battling Alzheimer's disease in her later years, she remains celebrated for her contributions, as captured in a viral video where her joy over tasting a sweet melon symbolizes her lifelong passion. Her motto, 'Grow more melons and share their sweetness with the people,' continues to resonate with many.