Why is it that so many of the smartest scientists in the world are Jewish?

I’m a former Muslim, and I feel that I have some kind of connection to Jewish affairs because some Jewish immigrants from my country share with me aspects of identity and culture. This makes me feel both nostalgic and curious at the same time. But my main question is: why are most Nobel Prize winners in science Jewish, and why are so many great scientists and writers Jewish? What is the secret? Is it related to the opportunities they were given compared to others, or is it because they areabove all a thinking people?

I have received helpful and wonderful answers, and I’m still continuing to read your opinions as Jews on this matter^{_^}