Stanley B. Prusiner is a prominent American neurologist and biochemist best known for his groundbreaking discovery of prions, infectious agents composed solely of protein. His research challenged the traditional understanding of infectious diseases, which typically involve pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. Prusiner's work revealed that these abnormal protein conformations could propagate and induce neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. His pivotal findings earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1997, making him a central figure in the study of prion-related disorders. Prusiner's research not only contributed significantly to the field of neurobiology but also opened new avenues for exploring the mechanisms underlying protein misfolding and its implications for human health. Beyond his scientific achievements, Prusiner has held distinguished academic positions and has emphasized the importance of education and mentorship in the sciences. His commitment to advancing knowledge about prions has had lasting impacts on both research and public understanding of neurological diseases. Stanley B. Prusiner is a prominent American neurologist and biochemist known for his discovery of prions, which are infectious proteins that can lead to neurodegenerative diseases. His groundbreaking work has reshaped our understanding of infectious agents, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1997 for his contributions to neurobiology. In addition to his research, Prusiner is dedicated to education and mentorship, fostering the next generation of scientists in the crucial field of neurodegenerative disease research.