[Human Factor] In Honor of a Different Kind of Code Hacker

Francis Crick, who, in 1953, unravelled the structure of DNA along with James D. Watson, died on July 28, 2004. Crick and Watson's discoveries led to our present understanding of the genetic code, which is arguably far more important to all of us than the computer code we celebrate on our weblogs every day.

For details and an appreciation, see Francis Crick, DNA Helix Discoverer, Dies at 88, Francis Crick one of the most brilliant and influential scientists of all time MRC statement, and Remembering a DNA pioneer.

Let us all pause for a few nanoseconds to give thanks for a life of value, one that was truly well-lived.

I must hasten to add that we should equally give thanks for the unfortunately short life of Rosalind Franklin (1920 - 1958), who should rightfully have shared the glory for elucidating the structure of DNA (also, see this article contributed by a commentor to this post: Rosalind Franklin: Unsung Hero of the DNA Revolution). Perhaps it is not too late to redress her ommission from the historical credit for this great scientific discovery. Surely, Rosalind Franklin's name should be recorded as one of our many "Great Women of Science!"