Alternative Ambitions: Scientists Reveal Their Secret Dream Careers

While their professional lives are defined by pipettes and Petri dishes, many researchers harbor aspirations that extend far beyond the laboratory. From the cockpit of an airplane to the intensity of the bullfighting arena, the intellectual curiosity that drives scientific inquiry often manifests in a diverse array of outside passions. To discover these hidden ambitions, The Scientist polled its readers with a simple question: If you hadn’t pursued a career in science, what would you be doing instead?

Civic Duty and Societal Impact

Paul SteinBiologist, Ederstrom Enterprises

I would likely be a litigation lawyer. Law demands the same reason, logic, and evidence as science—the only downside is that it involves dealing with people.

Simona GiuntaGenomics Researcher, University of Rome Sapienza

I would enter politics. It is disheartening to realize that one can spend years perfecting a life-saving drug, yet without universal healthcare, that innovation may never actually reach the people who need it.

Antony NziokaAnalyst, Samgen Project

I would have pursued a career as a cargo airline pilot and a farmer.

John ZaryResearch Specialist, East Carolina University

I would work for the American Red Cross, managing and organizing blood drives to ensure a reliable and safe supply for patients in need.

The Call of the Arts and Humanities

Hudson FreezeBiologist, Sanford Burnham Prebys

I spent time as a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) actor, winning a few awards and appearing in several plays. Although my acting credits lasted longer than my actual career in the field, I would love to return to the stage.

Luisa RusconiFreelance Science and Medical Writer, Zadig

Rather than writing, I would dedicate my time to studying and teaching ancient Greek and Latin.

Vicky van SantenProfessor Emerita, Auburn University

I would be a graphic designer. I have always found great satisfaction in creating the figures for my research publications and designing presentation slides.

Daniel ReddyChemist, Queen’s University

English was my favorite subject in high school, and I have a deep love for country music. If I weren’t a scientist, I would have moved to Nashville to pursue songwriting.

Alexandre SouzaDoctoral Candidate, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro

I am not sure I could ever truly stop being a scientist. Whether I became a musician, a writer, or a photographer of living organisms, I would still be driven by wonder, evidence, and a disciplined sense of doubt. To me, science is more than a set of methods; it is a fundamental way of questioning reality and remaining open to what the evidence reveals.

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

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