The obituary notes that James Watson, the co-discoverer of the DNA double-helix, died at 97, leaving a legacy defined by his scientific breakthroughs but shadowed by racist and sexist remarks that led Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory to sever ties with him in 2019.

Watson, along with Crick and Maurice Wilkins, won the 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for elucidating the DNA structure, with Rosalind Franklin's crucial X-ray evidence later recognized as a vital contribution.

The piece highlights Watson’s broader influence on science policy and education, while noting ongoing ethical debates about genome editing and manipulation.

The article, published by Scientific American, includes a call to support science journalism and subscription promotions.

The Nobel narrative is placed within a larger discussion of science communication and the era’s ‘old boys’ club’ dynamics, illustrating how authorship, collaboration, and credit have evolved.

It also details how formal policies for authorship, accountability, and dispute resolution have improved collaboration, though issues like harassment and underrepresentation persist.

Peers describe Watson’s later work as overshadowed by a reliance on intuition over empirical evidence and a disdain for established science.

Franklin’s foundational contributions are acknowledged, with ethical debates surrounding the use of her data and recognition within Nobel rules.

The report originates from The National News Desk with an editor’s note crediting the Associated Press.

Watson’s controversial remarks led to ostracism by much of the scientific community, tarnishing his reputation in later years.

Despite controversy, Watson remained active in science and charity, continuing public engagement until his death in 2025.

The obituary traces a concise timeline from his birth in 1928 to his death, outlining major milestones and controversies along the way.