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DNA Pioneer James D. Watson Dies at 97, Cold Spring Harbor Confirms

On Thursday, James D. Watson, molecular biologist and co-discoverer of DNA's double helix, died at 97 in East Northport, New York, his son said he was moved to hospice after infection treatment.
Watson and Francis Crick described the double-helix structure of DNA when James D. Watson was 24, earning a 1962 Nobel Prize with Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins and helping launch the Human Genome Project.
The discovery opened the door to gene therapies, forensic DNA identification and tracing family trees, while the double helix became a cultural symbol and James D. Watson later had the six billion base pairs of his DNA sequenced.
Amid controversy, Watson faced condemnation for racist remarks, leading Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory to revoke honors and suspend him in 2007, said Paul Lombardo.
His career left a complicated legacy as James D. Watson, molecular biologist, used his prestige to lead Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory for nearly 40 years and in 2014 donated $4.1 million from his Nobel Prize auction to charity.

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Cambridge Independent

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James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA’s double helix structure, dies aged 97

One half of legendary Cambridge duo with Francis Crick made discovery in 1953.

28 days ago

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SBS News

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INTERVIEW: Bruce Stillman on the life and legacy of DNA pioneer James Watson

Australian scientist Bruce Stillman reflects on the complicated legacy of American biologist James Watson who has died at the age of 97. He co-discovered the double helix structure of the DNA molecule - but his remarks in later life have drawn criticism.

28 days ago·Sydney, Australia

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