Richard E. Smalley was a renowned American chemist and physicist known for his contributions in the field of nanotechnology. Some of the synonyms that can be used for this distinguished scientist are: Nobel laureate, pioneer, visionary, inventor, researcher, nanotech expert, scholar, educator, contributor, and innovator. Smalley's notable works include the discovery of fullerene, a carbon molecule that has wide-ranging applications from medicine to electronics, and co-founding the Rice University-based Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology. He is also known for his advocacy of renewable energy and global sustainability. Richard E. Smalley's impactful legacy as a scientist and humanist continues to inspire future generations to contribute towards science and engineering progress.