BioTechniques holiday gift guide 2025
The holiday season is upon us! Looking for the perfect present for the scientist – or, if you’re lucky, scientists – in your life? We’ve got you covered.
Ends of the Earth: Journeys to the Polar Regions in Search of Life, the Cosmos, and our Future by Neil Shubin
In case it isn’t cold enough where you are and you need to take a mental trip to the polar regions, Ends of the Earth offers an insight into how these regions shape life on our planet – from physicists’, climatologists’, geologists’, biologists’ and paleontologists’ perspectives.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year Portfolio
For those among us who would rather look at the pictures, this portfolio collates 100 images from the Natural History Museum’s 61st Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. The images capture a rich variety of subjects alongside explanations of how the pictures were made and the equipment used.
Cyanotype craft kitCyanotype printing is an early form of photography, which was made famous by scientist Anna Atkins in her book, Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions, published in 1843. This kit contains everything anyone would need to create striking images using UV light exposure.
Calling all microbiologists! This calendar promises to keep your PI organized, while also providing some much-needed décor for their desk. Each month is accompanied by beautiful microbiology-inspired watercolor prints, perfect for brightening up the office.
Any neuroscientist would be thrilled to put this on their wall. From Michigan-based artist Avery Crane, this colorful abstract print of neurons (available in multiple sizes) is “a visual love letter to the structure of the mind – messy, brilliant and beautifully interconnected.” Not into neurons? No problem. This artist has a wide selection of science-inspired prints to choose from. Can I interest you in bacteria? Maybe some blood cells?
Microscope earringsKnow an imaging scientist who likes a bit of bling? Need I say more?
Lab pinWhether your labmates want to sport a microscope, conical flask, DNA or – indeed – another lab coat, they can take a little bit of science with them wherever they go.
DNA gel science coasterDesigned to look exactly like a DNA electrophoresis gel, this coaster is the perfect present for your lab Secret Santa. And, if you must know, it’s actually a replica of a pBlueScript plasmid cloning experiment with BamHI site insert and NEB 1kb Plus ladder markers.
Natural History Museum – Events
Did you know that the Natural History Museum (London, UK) holds events out of hours? They have several amazing events for both kids and adults, including yoga and silent discos.
And, if you’re feeling really generous, then there’s ‘Dino Snores’ for kids and grownups… think Night at the Museum, but without Ben Stiller.
Need more inspo? Check out our previous gift guides!