Charles Naudin performed experiments on plant hybridization and theorized about the nature of heredity. A contemporary of Gregor Mendel, Naudin pursued a similar experimental direction. Due to Naudin's lack of statistical analysis, however, along with some unfortunate accidents, Naudin did not present the scientific community with strong evidence of his conclusions, leading to a delay in the realization of the benefits of his experimentation.

The son of a struggling entrepreneur, Naudin graduated from university at Montpellier, France in 1837. He then moved to Paris, finding work as a bookkeeper, tutor, private secretary, and gardener in order to support further study. After obtaining his doctorate from Paris in 1842, he became a teacher. In 1846, Naudin was given an opportunity, joining the herbarium at the Museum of Natural History, and then becoming professor of Zoology at the College Chaptal.

Naudin was forced to resign from these hard won posts almost as soon...