James Watson: The controversial genius behind the double helix

James Dewey Watson is a name that resonates deeply in the world of science. Recognized as one of the discoverers of the structure of DNA, his legacy is as impressive as it is controversial.

Born on April 6, 1928 in Chicago, United States, James Watson demonstrated great intellectual curiosity from a young age. He graduated in zoology from the University of Chicago at the young age of 19, and subsequently obtained his doctorate from Indiana University in 1950. It was here that he became interested in genetics and molecular biology, laying the foundation for his future. investigation.

The Discovery of the Double Helix

In 1951, Watson traveled to Europe to work at the Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge. It was there that he met Francis Crick, with whom he would form a legendary team. Inspired by X-ray diffraction data obtained by Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins, Watson and Crick developed a model for the structure of DNA: the iconic double helix.

In 1953, they published their findings in the journal Naturea work that revolutionized modern biology. This discovery not only explained how genetic information is stored, but also how it is transferred from generation to generation. In 1962, Watson, Crick and Wilkins received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their contribution.

(Photo: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory/Wikimedia Commons)

Career and Later Achievements

After the Nobel Prize, Watson continued his work in research and education. He was director of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York, transforming it into a center of excellence in molecular biology. Additionally, he played a key role in the Human Genome Project, which culminated in the complete sequencing of human DNA in 2003.

Watson is also the author of several books, including The double helixan autobiography that recounts the process of the discovery of DNA. Although highly influential, this book generated criticism for its treatment of her colleagues, especially Rosalind Franklin.

Indeed, despite his achievements, Watson has been a controversial figure. His comments on topics such as intelligence and race have generated pushback in the scientific community and beyond. In 2007, he claimed that people of African descent were genetically less intelligent, statements that led to his dismissal from several positions.

These controversies have tarnished his reputation, but they have not erased his impact on science. His work with DNA remains fundamental to modern biology, including advances in medicine, biotechnology and genetics.