James D. Watson (1928–2025) was an American geneticist who co-discovered the structure of DNA and was among the most influential figures in modern biology.[8] He served as director, president, and chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York from 1968 to 2007, and was a key driver of the Human Genome Project.[3] Watson became famous not only for his scientific contributions, but also for his problematic attitudes towards women, especially towards Rosalind Franklin, who participated in the discovery of the structure of DNA.[5] In the last two decades of his life, his remarks about race led to a sharp fall from grace and the loss of his influential position. His legacy thus represents a complex case that combines a major scientific discovery with controversial personal behavior and opinions.