Nobel Prize-winning American scientist James Watson, one of the co-discoverers of the structure of DNA, has died aged 97.
In one of the greatest breakthroughs of the 20th Century, he identified the double-helix structure of DNA in 1953 alongside British scientist Francis Crick, setting the stage for rapid advances in molecular biology.
But Watson's reputation and standing were badly hurt by his comments on race and sex. In a TV programme, he made claims about genes causing a difference in average IQ between black and white people.
His death was confirmed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he worked and researched for decades, before being forced to resign as its chancellor over his remarks.
Watson shared the Nobel in 1962 with Maurice Wilkins and Francis Crick for their discovery of DNA's double helix structure. They famously declared, We have discovered the secret of life. However, by the early 2000s, Watson faced significant ostracism from the scientific community due to his divisive views.
In 2007, he controversially claimed he was inherently gloomy about the prospect of Africa, asserting that intelligence levels differ based on race—a statement that discredited his scientific contributions. He later claimed to apologize, but the remarks led to his resignation from key positions at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where his legacy as a contributor to science became increasingly complicated.
DNA's significance in biology has roots dating back to the 19th century. DNA was first identified in 1869, but it took nearly 80 years before its double-helix structure was accurately described. Watson and Crick built on the earlier work of Rosalind Franklin, whose contributions were historically minimized despite their critical importance to the eventual breakthrough.
While Watson's scientific achievements are notable, his controversial legacy raises questions about ethics and responsibility in scientific discourse, reflecting broader conversations about race and gender in research and academia. Watson's complex life epitomizes the dual nature of pioneering scientific inquiry, where groundbreaking discoveries can coexist with deeply problematic beliefs.
