Renowned American biologist James D. Watson, famous for his groundbreaking discovery of the structure of DNA in 1953, has passed away at the age of 97, as confirmed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory on Long Island. Watson, who spent many years at the laboratory, died at a hospice on Long Island, according to reports from The New York Times.
Despite his significant contribution to genetics and biotechnology, Watson’s later years were overshadowed by controversial remarks on genetics and race, leading to his alienation from the scientific community. Known for his provocative writing style and controversial actions, Watson, along with British physicist Francis Crick, achieved a major milestone in science by unraveling the three-dimensional structure of DNA, detailed in his 1968 memoir, “The Double Helix.”
However, their discovery was not without criticism, as they were accused of using data from X-ray crystallographer Rosalind Franklin without proper acknowledgment. These actions, coupled with Watson’s later controversial remarks on race, further tarnished his reputation within the scientific realm.
Born in Chicago in 1928, Watson’s early academic pursuits in zoology eventually led him to the groundbreaking research on DNA structure alongside Crick at Cambridge University. Their work laid the foundation for genetic engineering and various DNA-based technologies, revolutionizing the field of genetics.
Following the DNA breakthrough, Watson continued to make significant contributions to molecular biology and genetics, including leading the U.S. effort to decode the human genome. His pivotal role in advancing genetic research solidified his position as a key figure in the scientific community.
Despite his controversial legacy, Watson’s impact on genetics and biotechnology remains undeniable, shaping the field for generations to come.
