Chapter 8 Summary

Francis Crick's interest in DNA became temporarily eclipsed by conflict in the laboratory. Sir Lawrence published a paper that utilized a theory Francis had propounded in the lab, and Francis accused him of using his idea without giving him credit. Sir Lawrence said he had come up with the idea independently. Both were offended and argued, leading Sir Lawrence to consider removing Francis, who had contributed nothing of importance, from the lab. Luckily for Francis, he was pursuing his Ph.D. at Cambridge and could not be let go before he finished his dissertation work.

Francis studied physics at University, College, London, and was beginning graduate work at the beginning of World War II. Like many scientists, he went to work for the government, where he helped make magnetic mines. After the war, he was no longer wanted in government service and came...