A word to describe a prolific scientist, inventor or explorer who was inspirational and innovative [closed]

What are some nouns with which we would refer to a scientist, inventor or explorer who was inspirational and innovative. To think of an analogy: biscuits are cheap,while cookies are expensive. Similarly, are there words that refer to a glorious scientist/innovator?

This question does not have a unique answer, so feel free to include words that you think you would use in such circumstances.

Luminary

(can also be used sarcastically)

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/luminary?s=t

Maestro

(nearly impossible to use sarcastically)

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/maestro?s=t