The field of nanotechnology has seen significant contributions from numerous researchers and scientists. While it is challenging to identify an exact top 10, the following are some pioneers who have had a remarkable impact on the development of nanotechnology:

1. Richard Smalley: Best known for his discovery of the carbon nanotube and his contributions to understanding fullerenes.

2. Sumio Iijima: Discovered and extensively researched carbon nanotubes, significantly advancing the understanding of their properties.

3. George M. Whitesides: Known for his work in nanotechnology, especially in the field of soft lithography, microfluidics, and self-assembled monolayers.

4. Paul Alivisatos: Renowned for his contributions to nanocrystal synthesis and studying their fundamental properties, which have implications for nanotechnology applications.

5. Don Eigler: Notable for his landmark achievement of manipulating individual atoms using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM).

6. Chad Mirkin: Known for his work on developing techniques like dip-pen nanolithography and spherical nucleic acids, which have advanced nanofabrication and nucleic acid-based therapeutics, respectively.

7. Naomi Halas: Recognized for her pioneering research in plasmonics and nanophotonics, leading to various applications in sensors, solar cells, and cancer treatment.

8. Mildred Dresselhaus: Known as the “Queen of Carbon Science,” her contributions to the understanding of carbon nanomaterials (including carbon nanotubes and graphene) were groundbreaking.

9. Zhong Lin Wang: Recognized for his work in nanogenerators, nanosensors, and self-powered systems, laying the foundation for energy harvesting and self-powered electronics.

10. Robert Langer: Known for his pioneering work in controlled drug delivery systems and tissue engineering, which have revolutionized personalized medicine and regenerative medicine.

It is important to note that this list represents just a few of the many groundbreaking researchers in nanotechnology, and there are numerous other scientists who have significantly contributed to the field.