James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA’s double-helix structure and Nobel Prize winner, has died at the age of 97. The discovery in 1953 laid the foundation for modern genetics, medicine, and biotechnology. Watson made the groundbreaking discovery at 24 alongside Francis Crick, with the key role of Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins. Watson passed away in hospice care after a brief illness, with his son confirming the news.
‘As a scientist, his and Francis Crick’s determination of the structure of DNA, based on data from Rosalind Franklin, Maurice Wilkins, and their colleagues at King’s College London, was a pivotal moment in the life sciences,’ Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Watson’s former research institution, stated in a statement.
Watson, along with scientists Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, won the 1962 Nobel Prize for their discovery, which revealed the structure of DNA as two intertwined strands resembling a twisting ladder. This discovery unlocked the secrets of genetic information storage and replication, paving the way for modern genetic engineering, disease treatment with genes, and DNA identification techniques.
Following his discovery, Watson authored influential works such as ‘The Double Helix’ (1968) and ‘Molecular Biology of the Gene’ (1965), which became cornerstones of genetic research. However, his later years were marred by controversy due to his racist remarks, which led to his removal from administrative roles at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and ultimately the revocation of his Emeritus status in 2020. These statements prompted significant backlash within the scientific community, underscoring the importance of ethical considerations in scientific discourse.
The passing of Watson marks the end of an era in genetic science, with his legacy continuing to influence fields ranging from medicine to biotechnology. His contributions to science and society have left an indelible mark, and his work remains a cornerstone of modern genetic research.