James D. Watson (1928-2025): Influencer of science and society

Witkowski, Jan, Stillman, Bruce (February 2026) James D. Watson (1928-2025): Influencer of science and society. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 123 (7). e2600779123. ISSN 0027-8424

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Abstract

James Dewey Watson who died on November 7, 2025, at the age of 97, was a towering figure in 20th century life science. With Francis Crick, he determined the structure of DNA, laying the foundation of modern biology; he made Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory one of the world's great biomedical research institutes and a center for professional education in molecular biology and neuroscience; he established the Human Genome Project and ensured that research on the associated ethical, legal, and social issues was part of the project; he created a classic textbook that revolutionized the style of the genre; and he wrote one of the most interesting and controversial books on science for scientists and nonscientists alike.

Item Type: Paper
Subjects: history
CSHL Authors:
Communities: CSHL labs > Stillman lab
SWORD Depositor: CSHL Elements
Depositing User: CSHL Elements
Date: 17 February 2026
Date Deposited: 11 Feb 2026 14:14
Last Modified: 11 Feb 2026 14:14
Related URLs:
URI: https://repository.cshl.edu/id/eprint/42068

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