The scientist known for their contributions to the understanding of the human genome is Francis Collins. As the director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), he led the Human Genome Project, a groundbreaking international scientific research initiative that successfully mapped the entire human DNA sequence. This monumental achievement has had profound implications for genetics, medicine, and our understanding of inherited diseases. Collins's work has driven advancements in genomic medicine, paving the way for personalized treatments and enhanced understanding of genetic disorders.