The DNA profile of James D. Watson
Are you related to the well-known molecular biologist?
Discover a possible family connection to the famous molecular biologist and compare yourself to many other famous people as well!
The DNA of a molecular biologist
James Dewey Watson, one of the most respected figures in the scientific world, is known for his groundbreaking findings on the molecular structure of deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 6, 1928, Watson showed a pervasive interest in ornithology early in his life. At 19, he earned a bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of Chicago.
Although ornithology was his first scientific hobbyhorse, Watson quickly turned his attention to genetics. His interest in bird watching apparently paved the way for him to look more closely at genetic makeup. In 1950, Watson earned a Ph.D. in zoology from Indiana University and then furthered his studies at the University of Copenhagen and the University of Cambridge.
While a student at Cambridge University, Watson met Francis Crick, with whom he collaborated and eventually presented the double helix model of DNA structure in 1953. The discovery of the molecular structure of DNA led to the birth of genetics and paved the way for the development of an extensive array of genomic technologies and the deciphering of the human genome.
For their pioneering work, Watson and Crick, along with Maurice Wilkins, were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962. Watson's scientific achievements did not end with the discovery of DNA structure. He became director of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in New York, a leading institution in the field of molecular genetics, in 1968. Under his leadership, the laboratory became the home of the Human Genome Project, a massive scientific undertaking aimed at the complete sequencing of the human genome.
In his later years, James D. Watson has been a controversial figure in the scientific community, largely because of his dissenting opinions and statements on topics such as race and intelligence. Watson retired in 2007, but remains a prominent figure in the world of genetics to this day.
In summary, James D. Watson is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated figures in the history of genetics. His contributions to the discovery of DNA structure and the Human Genome Project paved the way for many advances in modern genomics, and his work has had a lasting impact on science and society.
James D. Watson belongs to haplogroup R-M343 (subgroup R1b-S21) in the paternal line.
Encountering My Past with iGENEA: An Astonishing Connection to James D. Watson
Armed with curiosity about my lineage, I took iGENEA's DNA test and the results exceeded my wildest dreams. Not only was the process smooth, informative and supportive, but the discovery that I share ancestry with Nobel laureate James D. Watson was astounding. (Y. Koehnlein)
With an eye towards understanding my family history, I decided to try out iGENEA's DNA testing service. There was a certain curiosity in me about my lineage and how far it echoes in history. That curiosity turned into utter astonishment when I discovered that my DNA profile corollates with none other than the eminent James D. Watson, a Nobel laureate renowned for co-discovering the structure of DNA.
Processing my DNA with iGENEA was an incredibly seamless and rewarding journey. While I was slightly dubious about the process initially, I must say that iGENEA, through their professional approach and empathetic customer service, made it a breeze. The process was comfortable, and it began with me providing a genetic sample by simply swabbing the inside of my cheek.
After I shipped off my sample, iGENEA kept me informed throughout the process, unlike my previous experiences with other DNA testing companies. As they examined my sample and decoded the genetic information it contained, there was clear communication about the timeframe, procedure, and expected outcomes.
The result presentation segment of the whole process was simply extraordinary. When I found out about the correlation between my genetic makeup and that of James D. Watson, I was understandably in a state of disbelief. It was stupendous to learn that I share a common ancestry with one of the greatest scientist of our times.
It didn’t stop there. iGENEA then offered a detailed genealogical breakdown, which included potential relatives, historical links, geographic distribution of my paternal and maternal lineages, prehistoric gene families — the body of information was staggering.
iGENEA was more than just another DNA test; it was a journey into the past, a look into who I am today, and even a glimpse of what might lie ahead. The customer service team was always within reach for my queries, and they dealt with me in a manner that felt personal and thoughtful. Overall, the process was an enlightening roller-coaster.
Venturing into my ancestral past with iGENEA opened up a new chapter in self-understanding and overturned the textbook knowledge of my lineage. It was an unforgettable experience and one that I would highly recommend to people. To have my genetic profile processed by iGENEA is to open a treasure chest of ancestral history, origins and connections — insights that go beyond mere curiosity and touch the roots of who we are.
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Questions and answers about the DNA test
How long does a DNA origin analysis take?
After we have received the samples it normally takes 6 weeks for the fist results. Depending on the chosen test the result is thus already fully ready or further analysis are done.
How can I order a DNA origin analysis for someone else?
If you order and pay for a test set for somebody else online, the address of the other person under “Comments”. We will then send the collection kit to the address of this person. You can also place your order by phone or e-mail.
This is how the DNA origin analysis works
A Mucus Sample suffices to get a sample of your DNA. Taking the sample is simple and painless and can be done at home. Send the samples with the envelop included in the sampling kit.
at home, simple and painless
with the enclosed envelope
online after approx. 6-8 weeks