Celebrated scientist James Watson, who shared a Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking DNA discovery, has died at the age of 97.

The American pioneer 's co-unearthing of the double helix structure of DNA in 1953 helped light the long fuse on a revolution in medicine, crimefighting, genealogy and ethics. The death of Watson was confirmed by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, where he worked and researched for decades.

The DNA breakthrough - made when the Chicago-born Watson was just 24 - turned him into a respected figure in the world of science for decades. But near the end of his life, he faced condemnation and professional censure for offensive remarks, including saying Black people are less intelligent than white people.

Watson shared a 1962 Nobel Prize with Francis Crick and Maurice

See Full Page