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.
However, Watson's reputation and standing were greatly affected by his remarks on race and sex. His controversial comments included claims on the differences in average intelligence between black and white individuals.
His death was confirmed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he worked and conducted research for decades, ultimately resigning from his position as chancellor due to his controversial views.
Watson shared the Nobel in 1962 with Maurice Wilkins and Francis Crick for the discovery of the DNA's double helix structure. “We have discovered the secret of life,” they proclaimed at the time. Nonetheless, by the early 2000s, he had been largely ostracized by the scientific community due to his comments on race and gender.
Watson's controversial viewpoints persisted, including a statement in 2007 where he expressed bleak beliefs regarding the intelligence of Africans. Although he later apologized for these remarks, they significantly impacted his career.
Despite his groundbreaking achievements in DNA research, his later comments overshadowed his scientific insights. Watson's legacy remains a complex interplay of scientific achievement and social controversy.
