18 Best Side Hustles for Scientists (Plus Much More!)

Looking for some cool side hustles for scientists?

We have 18 gigs that will score extra cash, including tutoring, creating courses, and much more.

Enjoy!

Side Hustles for Scientists Quick Picks

Here are select highlights of lucrative side hustles for scientists:

• Most Engaging: Start your science-themed blog.
• Most Profitable: Participate in data science competitions.
• Most Flexible: Offer freelance scientific consulting services.

Side Hustles for Scientists Quick Picks (18 Profitable Gigs)

Freelance Science Consulting

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,000

As a scientist, you possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can be valuable to businesses, government agencies, and nonprofits. Freelance science consulting allows you to share your insights and provide solutions to complex problems. For instance, you could advise a pharmaceutical company on drug development or help an environmental organization assess the impact of climate change. 

Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer are great places to start your freelance consulting journey.

Scientific Writing

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,500

Scientists with a knack for writing can turn their talent into a profitable side hustle by becoming scientific writers. You can write research papers, create content for science blogs, or author articles for scientific magazines. 

Contena and ProBlogger Job Board often have postings for scientific writing jobs. Your writing can make complex scientific concepts accessible to a wider audience, thereby promoting scientific literacy.

Online Teaching

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,500

The demand for online education has surged in recent years, creating opportunities for scientists to become online teachers. You can teach science subjects at various levels, from elementary school to university. 

Online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Khan Academy are popular among students worldwide. You can share your passion for science by teaching online and inspire the next generation of scientists.

STEM Entrepreneurship

Estimated Monthly Income: $5,000

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are ripe for innovation. As a scientist, you can leverage your expertise to start a business or invent a product in a related field. This could range from developing a new scientific instrument to launching a biotech startup. 

Entrepreneurship can be risky but also very rewarding. Websites like AngelList and Crunchbase can provide valuable resources for STEM entrepreneurs.

Blogging on Science

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,000

Starting a science blog is a great way to communicate scientific ideas to the public. As a science blogger, you can write about recent scientific developments, debunk science myths, or explain scientific concepts simply and engagingly. 

You can monetize your blog through advertising, sponsored posts, or affiliate marketing. Platforms like WordPress and Medium are good starting points for budding bloggers.

YouTube Science Channel

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,000

Video content is increasingly popular, and scientists can get in on the action by starting a YouTube science channel. You can create videos on various topics, from explaining scientific theories to conducting experiments. 

Successful science YouTubers like Vsauce and Veritasium have millions of subscribers. Earnings come from ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

Online Science Tutoring

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,800

Many students struggle with science subjects, a high demand for science tutors exists. Online tutoring allows you to help students improve their understanding of science without leaving your home. 

You can offer tutoring services in your specialization, such as chemistry, physics, or biology. Chegg Tutors and Wyzant can connect you with students in need of tutoring.

Content Creation

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,200

Content creation is not limited to writing and video production. As a scientist, you can create various science-related content, such as infographics, podcasts, or educational games. This content can be sold or licensed to educational institutions, publishers, or tech companies. 

Canva and Adobe Spark can assist in creating visually appealing content.

Freelance Research

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,700

Many organizations require scientific research but lack the resources to conduct it in-house. As a freelance researcher, you can perform this research on their behalf. This could involve literature reviews, data analysis, or even conducting experiments. 

Freelance research can be a flexible and intellectually stimulating side hustle. Websites like Kolabtree and Upwork often have listings for freelance research jobs.

Data Analysis

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,500

Scientific research often involves analyzing large amounts of data. Scientists with strong analytical skills can offer data analysis services as a side hustle. This could involve cleaning data, performing statistical analysis, or visualizing data. With the rise of big data, this skill is in high demand. 

Websites like Kaggle and Freelancer are great places to find data analysis gigs.

Remote Lab Assistance

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,500

As a remote lab assistant, you could be the extra pair of hands researchers often wish they had. You can help set up experiments, analyze data, or troubleshoot technical issues, all from the comfort of your home. 

Sites such as FlexJobs and Indeed often have listings for remote lab assistant positions.

Course Creation

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,000

Why not create an online course if you know a particular scientific field? This is a fantastic way to share your expertise and make a tidy profit at the same time. 

Platforms like Udemy allow you to sell your courses to a global audience.

Science Transcription

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,000

Transcribing scientific lectures, interviews, and discussions can be a great side hustle if you’re familiar with scientific terminology. 

Companies like Rev offer transcription services and are always looking for skilled transcribers.

Scientific Illustration

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,500

Becoming a scientific illustrator could be a rewarding side gig if you have a knack for art and science. You could create diagrams for textbooks, design infographics for research papers, or even illustrate children’s science books. 

Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to start offering your services.

Patent Analysis

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,000

Patent analysis can be a lucrative side hustle for scientists. You’d review new patents related to your expertise, analyze their potential impact, and advise clients accordingly. 

Check out websites like Glassdoor for opportunities in patent analysis.

Science Editing

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,000

Many scientific journals and researchers need editors to review and polish their work before publication. If you have a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of scientific concepts, this could be your perfect side hustle. 

Websites like Freelancer often have listings for science editing jobs.

Grant Writing

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,500

Grant writing can be a rewarding and profitable side job if you’re good at persuasive writing. Many research institutions and nonprofits need skilled writers to help them secure funding. 

Sites like Indeed and Glassdoor often list grant writing opportunities.

Technical Advising

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,500

If you’ve years of experience in your field, technical advising could be a profitable side hustle. You’d provide expert advice to businesses, helping them solve complex problems, or develop new products. 

LinkedIn is a great place to network and find opportunities in technical advising.

Understanding Side Hustles for Scientists

The world of science is fascinating, filled with the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of contributing to the growth of human knowledge. But let’s be honest, it can also be financially challenging at times. That’s where side hustles come in. These are activities or jobs that you do in addition to your main job, providing an extra source of income, and even more, they can be a platform for you to explore your other passions.

Why Consider a Side Hustle?

1. Financial Security: A side hustle can provide additional income, which can be used to pay off student loans, save for retirement, or fund your next scientific experiment.
2. Flexibility: Many side hustles offer flexibility, allowing you to work on your terms and schedule. This means you can still dedicate yourself to scientific pursuits without compromising financial stability.
3. Personal Growth: Side hustles can also be a great way to learn new skills, meet new people, and explore interests outside of your primary field of study.
4. Risk Mitigation: If, for some reason, your primary source of income becomes unstable, having a side hustle provides you with a safety net.

Key Considerations Before Starting a Side Hustle

Alright, science whiz, before you dive into the world of side hustles, there are a few things you should consider. This isn’t like mixing two chemicals and hoping for the best (we’ve all had those lab days, haven’t we?). No, this requires a bit more thought.

1. Time Commitment: Side hustles are like needy houseplants. They need your attention to grow. Ask yourself, “How much time can I realistically dedicate to my side hustle without neglecting my main job or, heaven forbid, my sleep?”
2. Skill Set: Look at your skills through a magnifying glass. What can you offer that others might be willing to pay for? Are you a whizz at data analysis? Do you have a knack for writing scientific articles that even your grandma could understand? These skills could be your ticket to a successful side hustle.
3. Market Demand: Just like in your experiments, you must research. Is there a demand for your skills? If not, it’s like trying to prove a theory without data. It just won’t work.
4. Passion: This one’s important. Your side hustle should be something you enjoy. If not, it will fall flat faster than a failed experiment.

So, before you jump headfirst into the side hustle game, take some time to ponder these points. Websites like FlexJobs or apps like Fiverr can help you explore opportunities that match your skills and interests.

Balancing Your Side Hustle with Your Main Job

Okay, now let’s talk about balance. No, not the kind you used in your high school physics class. We’re talking about balancing your side hustle with your main job. This can be trickier than balancing a chemical equation, but don’t worry; I’ve got you covered.

Set Clear Boundaries: Your main job and side hustle should be like oil and water – they don’t mix. Set specific hours for your side hustle and stick to them. This will help prevent your side hustle from spilling into your main job time.

Prioritize: Just like in your lab work, you need to prioritize. Which tasks are most important? Which ones can wait? Get your priorities straight, and you’ll juggle your job and side hustle like a pro.

Take Care of Yourself: Remember, you’re not a robot. You need rest, relaxation, and recreation. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. After all, you can’t do your best work if you’re running on empty.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before you jump into your side hustle as a scientist, there are some legal and ethical considerations to remember. Trust me, these are just as important as those safety goggles you wear in the lab.

Understanding Intellectual Property Rights

First things first, let’s talk about intellectual property rights. If you’re planning on using the knowledge or skills you’ve gained at your primary job, tread carefully. Many companies have strict policies about what you can and cannot do outside of work, especially when using proprietary information. So, before you start selling your secret formula for glowing plants, ensure you’re not infringing on patents or copyrights. Websites like the World Intellectual Property Organization can be helpful resources in understanding these rights.

Ethical Boundaries

Next, let’s discuss ethical boundaries. As a scientist, you have a responsibility to uphold the integrity of your profession. This means being honest and transparent in all your dealings. If you’re offering a service, ensure it’s something you’re qualified to do and doesn’t conflict with your main job. Remember, no amount of extra income is worth compromising your professional reputation.

Building a Brand and Marketing Your Services

Now that we’ve got the legal and ethical stuff out of the way, let’s move on to something more fun – building your brand and marketing your services.

Identifying Your Unique Value Proposition

In science, we often talk about finding a unique variable that sets your experiment apart from all the others. Well, the same concept applies here. What makes you different from all the other science whizzes out there? Maybe you have a knack for making complex scientific concepts easy to understand. Or perhaps you’re an expert in a niche area of research. Whatever it is, this is your unique value proposition – what sets you apart from the competition.

Building Your Online Presence

Next, it’s time to build your online presence. This is like your digital lab, where potential clients can learn about you and your services. A professional-looking website is a must. Platforms like WordPress or Wix can help you create one, even if you’re not a tech guru.

Don’t forget about social media, either. According to Statista, over 3.6 billion people were using social media worldwide in 2020, projected to increase to almost 4.41 billion in 2025. That’s a lot of potential clients! Platforms like LinkedIn can be great for networking and showcasing your professional achievements. At the same time, Instagram or Twitter can be more suited for sharing interesting facts or news related to your field.

Marketing Your Services

Finally, it’s time to market your services. Remember, you’re not just selling a service; you’re selling a solution to a problem. So, focus on how your services can benefit your clients. Whether you use paid advertising, content marketing, or good old-fashioned word-of-mouth, ensure your message is clear, compelling, and targeted at the right audience.

So there you have it, the ultimate guide to side hustles for scientists. Now, go out there and make Einstein proud!

Maintaining Work-Life Balance

As a scientist, you’re no stranger to long hours in the lab, pouring over data points and hypotheses. But what about your life outside of work? How do you strike a balance between your profession and personal life? And more importantly, how can you make some extra money on the side without compromising either? Let’s dive into this.

Firstly, it’s essential to remember that work-life balance is not a myth. It might seem elusive, especially when you’re juggling multiple roles, but it’s achievable with some planning and strategizing.

Plan Your Time

Time management is the first step towards achieving a healthy work-life balance. Use tools like Google Calendar or apps like Toggl to keep track of your schedule and deadlines. This will help you allocate time for your side hustle without intruding on your primary job or personal life.

Key strategies to consider:

• Set specific hours for your side hustle.
• Keep weekends free for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Set realistic goals and deadlines for your side hustle.

Choose a Side Hustle Wisely

When choosing a side hustle, pick something that complements your skills as a scientist and is enjoyable. It should feel less like additional work and more like a money-earning hobby.

For instance, if you’re good at explaining complex scientific concepts, consider starting a science blog or a YouTube channel. Websites like WordPress or platforms like YouTube can be excellent starting points.

Take Care of Your Health

Health is wealth, indeed. No amount of money from your side hustle will matter if you’re not healthy enough to enjoy it. So, include regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient rest in your daily routine. Apps like MyFitnessPal can help track your health goals.

Remember:

• Regular breaks enhance productivity.
• Physical activity boosts your mood and energy levels.
• Proper nutrition fuels your body and mind for better performance.

Seek Support

Never hesitate to seek support when needed. Whether from family, friends, or professional networks, a good support system can make your side hustle journey smoother. Platforms like Meetup can help you connect with like-minded people and share experiences.

Side Hustles for Scientists FAQ

How can I make extra money in science?

If you’re a scientist looking to earn extra money, various side hustles are available that align with your expertise. Many scientists have found success in offering freelance scientific services. Depending on your interests and skills, this work could range from data analysis to scientific consulting. Another popular way for scientists to generate extra income is by participating in data science competitions on platforms like Kaggle. These competitions allow data professionals to demonstrate their skills while potentially earning cash prizes.

What are side hustles for Phd?

PhD students, especially those in the field of science, have many options when it comes to side hustles. One common route is becoming a research assistant or data analyst. Other possible side hustles include science communication, science blogging, and freelance writing. These job opportunities allow PhD students to apply their knowledge, gain valuable experience, and earn extra income.

How do scientists get money?

Scientists primarily get money from their full-time jobs, such as academia, research and development, or industry. However, many scientists generate additional income outside their primary job through side jobs or hustles. These could include teaching aspiring scientists, participating in data science competitions, or offering freelance scientific services.

What is the richest type of scientist?

Data scientists are among the highest-earning science professionals. Their skills in extracting insights from different data types are in high demand across various industries. Aside from their primary jobs, data scientists can also earn a sizable income from side hustles like teaching, freelance work, and participating in data science competitions.

Why are scientists so underpaid?

While many scientists are passionate about their work, they often face challenges regarding compensation. This is due to various factors, including the high cost of education and training, the competitive nature of scientific fields, and the often long and unpredictable hours. However, scientists can supplement their income by exploring various side hustles that align with their scientific skills and interests.

Side Hustles for Scientists Conclusion

The best side hustles for scientists are abundant and can provide an excellent opportunity to earn additional income by leveraging your scientific expertise. From data science projects to freelance writing jobs, scientists have a multitude of avenues to explore. Side jobs for scientists are not just about earning money; they also allow you to share your knowledge, passion, and love for science with a wider audience. For example, you may consider writing on platforms like Medium and Substack or creating online courses to educate others about the fascinating world of science.

Data science professionals, in particular, are in luck. Side hustles for data scientists are plentiful and rewarding. Platforms like 365 Data Science offer a wealth of opportunities to gain experience, share your expertise, and earn income. Additionally, organizations constantly need scientific expertise to help build and maintain their data infrastructure. You can supplement your income by offering your services while contributing to meaningful scientific work. Similarly, technical writing on platforms like these can serve as a passive income stream. Whether you’re a scientist looking for a side job or a data science professional seeking to supplement your income, the potential side hustles are plentiful and diverse.