pioneer (
http://definr.com/pioneer)
n 1: someone who helps to open up a new line of research or
technology or art [syn:
innovator]
2: one the first colonists or settler in a new territory; "they
went west as pioneers with only the possessions they could
carry with them"
v 1: open up an area or prepare a way; "She pioneered a graduate
program for women students" [syn:
open up]
2: take the lead or initiative in; participate in the
development of; "This South African surgeon pioneered
heart transplants" [syn:
initiate]