Do you have to be born great? The top 1% may benefit from a genetic advantage at birth

They account for around one per cent of the population and much of their success has been put down to dedication and perseverance. But new studies are now challenging the notion that extremely intelligent children earn their achievements through hard work. Instead, they suggest that they may have a genetic advantage from birth, and that success is built on this early head-start. Johns Hopkins University in Maryland runs a talent programme for adolescents who scored in the top one per cent in maths and English. Alumni include Mark Zuckerburg (pictured).