James Watson, the Nobel Prize-winning American scientist renowned for his co-discovery of DNA’s structure, has died at the age of 97.
His groundbreaking work in elucidating the double helix structure of DNA revolutionized molecular biology, paving the way for advancements in understanding DNA replication and genetic information.
However, his legacy was marred by controversial statements regarding race and intelligence, leading to the revocation of his honorary titles in 2019 after he reiterated views suggesting a genetic basis for differences in IQ scores between racial groups.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where Watson spent decades as a researcher, confirmed his death to the BBC.
Watson, along with Maurice Wilkins and Francis Crick, was awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize for their pivotal discovery of DNA’s double helix structure.
“We have discovered the secret of life,” they famously proclaimed at the time.
Watson expressed feeling ostracized by the scientific community following his remarks on race.
In 2007, while affiliated with the University of Cambridge’s Cavendish Laboratory, he told The Times newspaper that he held a “gloomy” outlook on Africa’s prospects, citing purported differences in intelligence based on testing.
These comments resulted in his resignation as chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York.
His subsequent remarks in 2019, reiterating a connection between race and intelligence, led to the laboratory stripping him of his honorary titles, including chancellor emeritus, Oliver R. Grace professor emeritus, and honorary trustee.
In a statement, the laboratory condemned Dr. Watson’s statements as “reprehensible” and “unsupported by science,” asserting that they effectively negated his previous apology.
Although DNA was discovered in 1869, its structure remained unknown until 1943, when scientists recognized DNA as the genetic material in cells.
Utilizing images obtained by King’s College researcher Rosalind Franklin without her consent, Crick and Watson developed a physical model of the DNA molecule.
In 2014, Watson auctioned his Nobel Prize gold medal for $4.8 million (£3.6 million).
He stated that the sale was prompted by his ostracization from the scientific community following his controversial remarks on race.
James Watson, a key figure in the discovery of DNA structure, has died at 97.
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