Scientist, one mistakenly called a monster, not honest about ego (8)

I believe the answer is:

einstein

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'scientist' is the definition.
(Einstein is an example)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for einstein that I've seen before include "Albert -, Nobel prize scientist" , "Nineties (anag.)" , "Nobel prize-winner" , "Highly influential German physicist" , "Brilliant scientist" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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