1. (noun) someone who helps to open up a new line of research or technology or art

• groundbreaker
• innovator
• pioneer

1. (noun) someone who marks a trail by leaving blazes on trees

• guide
• pathfinder
• scout

2. (noun) someone who helps to open up a new line of research or technology or art

• conceiver
• mastermind
• originator

1. (noun) someone who helps to open up a new line of research or technology or art

• initiate
• pioneer
• innovate
• introduce
• open up
• pioneer