Chemist Tu Youyou nominated one of last century's greatest scientists

The Chinese pharmaceutical chemist Tu Youyou has been nominated by the BBC as one of the most influential scientific figures of the 20th century, alongside Marie Curie, Alan Turing, and Albert Einstein.

Details about Tu Youyou, who was nominated by the BBC as one of the most influential figures in 20th century science alongside Marie Curie, Alan Turing, and Albert Einstein. [Screenshot: China Plus via BBC]

Tu Youyou was the only living nominee representing the field of science. The 88-year-old researcher is China's first female Nobel laureate, and is lorded for her discovery of a new treatment for malaria, which has helped save lives around the world.

Tu Youyou, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, acknowledges the applause after she received her prize from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden during the Nobel Prize Awards Ceremony at Concert Hall on December 10, 2015 in Stockholm, Sweden. [File Photo: VCG]

Twenty eight nominees across seven categories – leaders, explorers, scientists, entertainers, activists, sports stars, artists, and writers – were selected by the BBC for its program "Icons". The top spot in the science category went to Alan Turing, the English mathematician widely regarded as a father of computer science and artificial intelligence.

The four nominees for the title of most influential 20th century scientists for the BBC's "Icons" program. The winner of the category was Alan Turing. [Screenshot: China Plus via BBC]

The ultimate icon will be chosen from the finalists from the seven categories. The winner will be announced during a live telecast on February 5.