New Epstein Files Show Nobel Laureate James Watson at Epstein Manhattan Townhouse
Newly released photographs show James Watson, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist known for co-discovering the structure of DNA, inside the Manhattan townhouse of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to a report by The Telegraph, the images depict Watson posing with three young women in a reception room at Epstein’s New York residence. The photographs are believed to date from the mid-to-late 2010s, years after Epstein had served jail time for a child-sex offense conviction.
There is no allegation of wrongdoing by Watson in connection with the visit.
Watson’s Scientific Legacy
James Watson, who died in November 2025 at the age of 97, is widely recognized for identifying the double helix structure of DNA in 1953 alongside British scientist Francis Crick. Their work fundamentally transformed molecular biology and earned them the 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
The discovery of DNA’s double helix structure laid the foundation for modern genetics, biotechnology, and genomics.
Reported Relationship Between Watson and Epstein
Emails previously published by the U.S. Department of Justice had indicated communication between Epstein and Watson. However, the photographs published by The Telegraph reportedly mark the first visual evidence placing Watson inside Epstein’s Manhattan home.
The report states that Epstein and Watson exchanged correspondence related to genetics research and scientific discussions. Emails cited in earlier investigations show Epstein asking associates to prepare genetics-related questions ahead of lunch meetings with Watson.
One photograph reportedly shows Watson holding a document titled Stopping Incurable Cancers Through Eliminating Their Anti-Oxidants, reflecting his research interest in cancer biology and oxidative stress.
Shared Interest in Genetics and Controversial Views
Emails suggest Epstein appeared to express support for Watson’s previously controversial views regarding genetics and intelligence. In a 2007 interview, Watson made remarks about race and intelligence that were widely criticized by the scientific community. He later apologized but repeated similar claims in a 2019 documentary.
Following those remarks, Watson was stripped of his honorary titles in 2019 by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the research institution where he had long been affiliated.
Epstein, who reportedly expressed interest in genetic enhancement concepts, had also communicated with academics about ideas linked to human genetic modification and eugenics, a discredited theory that proposes improving the human population through selective breeding.
Investigations described Epstein’s interest in establishing a sperm bank involving prominent scientists, though there is no evidence that such plans materialized.
Broader Context of Epstein’s Scientific Associations
Epstein, who died in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges, was known to cultivate relationships with prominent figures in academia, science, business, and politics.
Previous document releases and media investigations have referenced other scientists and academics who had professional or social interactions with Epstein. In many cases, individuals stated that they had been unaware of the full extent of Epstein’s criminal conduct at the time of their association.
See also: Jeffrey Epstein Death: Doctor Challenges Suicide Ruling
The revelations add to the broader record of Epstein’s documented efforts to associate with prominent figures in science and academia. Watson, who passed away in November 2024, remains a pivotal figure in molecular biology, though his later years were marked by controversy over statements concerning genetics and race.
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