BioTechniques holiday gift guide 2024
Throw on your favorite festive tunes, deck the halls and wrap the presents! And if you’re still looking for the perfect gift for the science enthusiast in your life, look no further than our gift guide.
At the top of our gift guide, you’ll find a couple of books. From the science of the microbiome to an overflow of dopamine, these books are recognized for their popularity in the scientific genre.
Dark Matter: The New Science of the Microbiome by James Kinross
James Kinross – a senior lecturer in colorectal surgery at Imperial College London (UK) – leads a research team that investigates how the microbiome influences cancer and other chronic diseases of the gut. In Dark Matter, Kinross lets us in on the secrets of the microbiome, highlighting the importance of protecting it.
Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence by Anna Lembke
In a world full of high-dopamine stimuli, Dopamine Nation is all about finding the balance between pleasure and pain. Written by Professor and Medical Director of Addiction Medicine at Stanford University (CA, USA) Anna Lembke, this book details how finding contentment and connectedness means keeping dopamine in check.
Next, we have a few presents perfect for inspiring curiosity and learning among the young scientists… but really, you’re never too old to play.
Introductory microscope
Thinking about getting your kids their first microscope? We have just the one for you! This kit comes with all the essentials, including the microscope itself – which can magnify objects up to 300 times – plastic slides and cover slips, tweezers, a pipette, a test tube rack, test tubes, an illustrated manual and more.
Genetic and DNA lab kit
Teach the kiddos in your life how to isolate DNA from a tomato! Complete with all the necessary tools, this kit provides a nice introduction to genetics and DNA; it’s the perfect winter break activity.
Grow n’ Glow terrarium
Here’s a fun way to learn about plants. This terrarium has glow-in-the-dark components as well as nutrients for the seeds so kids can watch plants grow during the day and have a handy night light at bedtime.
Now, here’s a little something for your lab’s Secret Santa, stockings or that someone special.
Meowcrobiology mug
Do you have a cat- and science-obsessed friend or family member? Guilty! No seriously, please can someone get this for me?
Beaker hair clip
For the chic post doc or PI in your lab to complete the lab coat and goggles look, this beaker hair clip is a must.
But, it feels like something is missing… ah! We have just the thing.
Conical flask earrings
These earrings are what’s missing! Go on, you deserve them.
Petri dish soaps
I love these petri dish soaps. They’re so clever and fun, but perhaps not the most appealing soaps to have stacked up in your bathroom for guests to use… unless those guests are fellow microbiologists, in which case, probably best to keep an inventory.
Neuroscience mug
This mug is just one example of this shop’s work. There are several brain-themed gifts to choose from, all equally beautiful and perfect for the neuroscientist in your life.
Periodic table engraved coasters
For the chemist who thinks they’re too cool for science-themed gifts, here’s some slate with a subtle nod to the elements. Very demure.
