Technology

'Sciencey' Gift Ideas for the Nerds in Your Life

December 11, 2015 | Elizabeth Knowles

Young person dressed as Santa plays with a chemistry set.

Taking Christmas shopping from overwhelming to entertaining

Sometimes Christmas shopping can be a little overwhelming. There are so many people and so many stores to choose from. You don’t want to get something that your friends or relatives already have, but you also don’t want to get something that they’ll just toss in a pile and forget about it. We’re here to help!

For the Botanist in Your Life

Desktop Carnivorous Plant Set from Think Geek

Image credit: ThinkGeek

Seed bombs are a great choice to help your favorite botanist spread his or her love of flowers. Alternatively, a carnivorous desk plant will ensure that you don’t have to share him or her with anyone else.

For the Chemist in Your Life

Chemists spend so much time in the lab, that they probably can’t remember what life is like outside it. So, why not get them laboratory shot glasses or a beaker mug with a caffeine molecule on it.

For the Physicist or Computer Scientist in Your Life

Image Credit: SnootLab/Flickr (CC By 2.0)

Nobody likes to tinker more than a physicist, and an Arduino starter kit is the perfect solution. With this great gift, anyone can learn the basics of electronics and programming. Looking for something a little more complex? Try a Raspberry Pi.

For the Biologist in Your Life

A USB microscope could be useful for professionals and hobbyists alike. Alternatively, brain specimen coasters could prove a thoughtful option since we hope that they won’t be using the microscope for that.

For the Astronomy Lover in Your Life

Freeze dried ice cream eaten by astronauts on the ISS

Freeze-dried "astronaut" ice cream. Image Credit: Ruth Hartnup/Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Planetary jewelry will let them show off their love for astronomy. If astronautics are more their thing, try getting a selection of astronaut food to fill their stocking.

For the Math Geek in Your Life

Going for a pi-themed gift is probably the easiest way to go. You can get pi pie plates, shower curtains, shirts, ties, and even an infinity scarf (which they might especially appreciate due to pi’s infinite nature).