10 Gift Ideas for Scientists

The holiday season is here. Whether you are looking for a gift for a scientist, science enthusiast or doing a gift exchange at work I have a gift for you. 

1. Coffee/Tea Mug:

Whether you are a coffee or tea drinker there is a mug for you. You can buy mugs geared to your science career or customize your own mug with a witty phrase. The possibilities are endless! Add a special touch by pairing the mug with their favorite coffee or tea. This is a gift that any scientist would love.

2. Science Ornament:

If you know someone who collects ornaments, show them you care with a nice science-themed ornament that will make their Christmas tree stand out.

3. Cookbook for Scientists:

I like to cook, but I also enjoy the science behind cooking. One of my favorite Cooking TV Personalities is Alton Brown. Here are two cooking books: The Science of Good Cooking by The Editors of America’s Test Kitchen and Guy Crosby Ph.D.  and I’m Just Here for the Food: Food + Heat = Cooking by Alton Brown.

4. Books or Magazine Subscriptions:

For the scientist who likes to read. I recommend Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make that Sabotage Their Careers by Lois P. Frankel, Ph.D. or The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. As for magazines there are many magazines out there to pick from.

5. T-shirts: 

Everyone needs a good t-shirt. Grab a t-shirt with your alma mater, shows a cause you support or has a quirky science saying. You can be a stylist scientist and showcase your personality through your clothing. Use STEAM to your advantage.

6.  Touch Screen Gloves:

With the temperatures drop why not give your colleague a pair of touch screen phone gloves. Now they can text and keep their hands warm. Add some handwarmers to this gift for a nice touch.

7.  PhD Comics Ideas:

I have been reading PhD Comics for a long time. I find them mixed with humor, exaggeration, and truth. If you know someone who will enjoy the humor of PhD Comics give them a gift from the site.

8. Planner/Journal: 

I am big on planning and keeping a journal. Since we are coming to the end of the year now is the time to buy a new planner and/or journal. Moleskin has many planners, journals and other notebooks to keep you organized.

9. Watch: 

Do you have a friend who is always late or cannot stop checking their phone for the time? Give them a stylish watch.

10. Tablet:

For the technophile who prefers to have all the latest technology at their fingertips, a tablet is the perfect gift for them. They can schedule, take notes, draw structures and keep up on the latest research.

Bonus:

Future Scientist Onesie – If you know a scientist who is having a baby over the holidays you can give her/him a onesie that says ‘Future Scientist’. It is the cutest onesie for a newborn.

Note: You can find the science themed gifts at many online novelty shops.

What was your favorite gift idea? Comment below.

Happy Holidays and Happy Gift Giving!

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