This question asks to identify a specific molecular biologist based on several key achievements and biographical details.

Identifying the DNA Double Helix Co-Discoverer

• The question highlights the co-discovery of the DNA double helix structure with Francis H. C. Crick.
• It also mentions the recipient of the 1962 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for this work.
• The question adds specific biographical information: passing away at 97 in East Northport, New York.

Analyzing the Options

• James D. Watson: Co-discovered the DNA double helix structure with Crick and shared the Nobel Prize. He passed away in 2023 at the age of 96 (though the question states 97, the core identification criteria match him).
• Maurice Wilkins: Also involved in DNA structure research and shared the Nobel Prize, but Watson is primarily associated as the co-discoverer with Crick.
• Rosalind Franklin: Her X-ray diffraction data was crucial for discovering the double helix structure, but she died before the Nobel Prize was awarded and did not share it.
• Francis H. C. Crick: Co-discovered the double helix structure with Watson and shared the Nobel Prize. The question asks for the *other* co-discoverer besides Crick.

Determining the Correct Biologist

Based on the criteria of co-discovering the DNA double helix with Crick and being a Nobel laureate for this work, James D. Watson is the correct individual. While the exact age at death (97 vs 96) might be slightly off in the question's premise, the other identifying factors point directly to him.