James Watson, the celebrated scientist who co-discovered the structure of DNA, has passed away at the age of 97. His death was confirmed by the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he conducted research for many years. Watson's groundbreaking work on the double helix structure of DNA in 1953, alongside Francis Crick and Maurice Wilkins, marked a pivotal moment in science, igniting a revolution in fields such as medicine, forensics, and genetics. Born in Chicago, Watson was just 24 when he made the discovery that would earn him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962. The double helix model revealed how genetic information is stored and replicated, fundamentally changing our understanding of biology. This discovery has had far-reaching implications, from advancements in genetic engineering to the identification of individuals through DNA analysis. The double helix has become an iconic symbol of science, appearing in various cultural references, including art and postage stamps. Watson himself acknowledged the monumental impact of their discovery, stating, "Francis Crick and I made the discovery of the century, that was pretty clear." He later reflected, "There was no way we could have foreseen the explosive impact of the double helix on science and society." Despite his scientific achievements, Watson's later years were marred by controversy due to his remarks on race and intelligence. In 2007, he faced backlash after suggesting that intelligence levels differ among races, a statement that led to widespread condemnation and professional censure. Throughout his career, Watson contributed to the scientific community by writing influential textbooks and a best-selling memoir. He played a significant role in the Human Genome Project, motivated in part by a personal connection, as his son Rufus had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Watson believed that understanding DNA would be crucial in addressing such diseases. While Watson's legacy is marked by his monumental contributions to science, it is also complicated by his controversial views. His passing marks the end of an era for a figure who profoundly influenced the field of genetics and the ethical discussions surrounding it.