"Many scientists are afraid of ridicule, and would not risk their reputations by studying certain areas"

Luckily, lots of other scientists are not afraid, and will study those areas. The whole point of science is that everything, everything, everything is open to question. ALL conclusions are provisional. There is no faith (except in a handfull of axioms such as "two points determine a straight line"). There is no greater source of fame (and fortune) than overturning dearly-held beliefs. There will always be one whose lust for fame and wealth is stronger than fear of ridicule. BTW, academic institutions go to great lengths to ensure freedom of inquiry.

And no, being a nuclear physicist doesn't make him right. Having ideas that stand up to relentless scrutiny would make him right...for the moment of course. Also, beware of experts outside their field of expertise.