Often celebrated as a pioneer of genetics alongside Francis Crick, racist and sexist remarks tarnished his reputation in later years.

In his later years, Watson's reputation was tarnished by comments on genetics and race that led him to be ostracized by the scientific establishment.

Photos and letters show how James Watson and Francis Crick raced to uncover the double helix structure of DNA.

Scientist James Watson, who shared a Nobel prize for helping discover the double-helix shape of the DNA molecule, has died

James Watson, co-discoverer of DNA's double-helix structure, has died at 97. The Nobel Prize winner made the groundbreaking discovery in 1953 at just 24 years old.

Watson’s 1953 discovery revealed the structure of DNA, the molecule that carries hereditary information, paving the way for genetic engineering, gene therapy and modern biotechnology

James Watson, who co-discovered the structure of DNA has died at age 97. He was a scientific superstar until he made racist remarks that made him an outcast.

His collaboration with biophysicist Francis Crick on the molecular key to all living organisms would make him one of the most influential figures in modern science.

James D. Watson who helped identify the double-helix structure of the DNA molecule, died on Thursday at the age of 97.

That discovery, made with co-researchers Francis Crick and Maurice H.F. Wilkins, led to a Nobel Prize in 1962. Crick moved west to La Jolla’s Salk Institute in 1976, and Watson, who died Thirsday at age 97, visited at least annually for many years.