James Watson, who co-discovered the double-helix structure of DNA in 1953, has died at the age of 97. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he worked and conducted research for decades, confirmed his death to the BBC.
Scientific Contributions
Watson, along with Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962 for their discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. This breakthrough provided a framework for understanding how DNA replicates and carries genetic information, significantly advancing the field of molecular biology. At the time of their discovery, they stated, "We have discovered the secret of life."
Prior to their work, DNA was identified in 1869. By 1943, scientists recognized DNA as the genetic material within cells, but its structure remained unknown. Working with images obtained by King's College researcher Rosalind Franklin, without her knowledge, Watson and Crick constructed a physical model of the molecule.
Controversial Statements and Consequences
Watson faced professional repercussions for comments he made regarding race and intelligence. In 2007, while associated with the University of Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory, he stated in an interview with The Times newspaper that he was "inherently gloomy about the prospect of Africa," citing a belief that "all our social policies are based on the fact that their intelligence is the same as ours - whereas all the testing says not really." These remarks led to his resignation as chancellor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York. Watson subsequently stated that he felt ostracized by the scientific community due to these comments.
In 2019, Watson reiterated views on a link between race and intelligence in a television program. In response, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory stripped him of his honorary titles, including chancellor emeritus, Oliver R Grace professor emeritus, and honorary trustee. The laboratory issued a statement describing Dr. Watson's statements as "reprehensible, unsupported by science," adding that they effectively reversed his earlier apology.