Science Stereotypes Mythbusted – Why You Should F**king Love Science

Science is everywhere. It’s in your phone, your fitness tracker, your climate app, and the 3D-printed knee replacement your uncle just got. Yet somehow, despite living in the most tech-driven era in history, Australia is still facing a serious science skills shortage.

According to Australia’s Chief Scientist, enrolment in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects is not keeping pace with demand. In fact, participation in high school science subjects has declined significantly over the past two decades—at a time when we need STEM-literate graduates more than ever.

So, what’s the disconnect? Why aren’t more people jumping into a field that’s literally shaping the future? Let’s break down some of the common myths—and highlight why science is not just cool, but crucial.

Myth 1: Science Is Boring

Boring? Let’s take a quick look at what science has given us in just the past few years:

• Self-driving cars
• CRISPR gene-editing
• Lab-grown organs and 3D-printed bones
• Solar skin that can power devices
• New exoplanets that might support life

And let’s not forget real-time pandemic tracking, space missions to Mars, and wearable biosensors that could soon detect disease before symptoms appear. If that’s boring, you’re not paying attention.

Myth 2: Scientists Are Just Lab Hermits

Sure, some scientists wear lab coats—but many are in the field, the ocean, the outback, or even orbit. From marine biologists to space engineers, science jobs are as mobile and diverse as any other career path. Want travel, flexibility, and real-world impact? Science has all that and more.

As CSIRO’s Principal Research Scientist Dr Leila Alem notes, science careers often allow for global collaboration, work-from-anywhere flexibility, and surprisingly strong work-life balance:

“Science is a very good career for a woman. I have two children… I’ve been through maternity leave and have come back. You get more understanding and support in research than in industry.”

Myth 3: Science Isn’t Creative

Science is inherently creative—it’s about exploring the unknown, asking questions, solving problems, and often inventing entirely new solutions. Whether it’s designing wearable tech, developing renewable energy systems, or simulating black holes, science is driven by curiosity and imagination.

It’s also where science, art, and technology converge. Think AI-generated art, sustainable architecture, and medical imaging that’s both functional and beautiful. Creativity is at the core of every innovation.

Myth 4: Science Isn’t for Women

Science still has a gender gap, but it’s closing. While women remain underrepresented in senior science roles, more initiatives and scholarships are helping to close the divide. And the success stories are stacking up.

From astrophysicist Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith to biomedical innovator Professor Fiona Wood, women are shaping Australia’s scientific future. And that future needs more female leaders—especially in STEM education, research, and entrepreneurship.

Myth 5: You Have to Be a Genius

You don’t need to be Einstein to succeed in science. What you need is curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to learn. Australia is investing heavily in building a stronger STEM workforce—including funding for tertiary education and a target to have 40% of 25–34 year olds with a tertiary qualification.

There’s a science career for every strength—whether you’re great with numbers, systems, tech, people, the environment or animals.

Careers in Science Are Booming

Science graduates are in high demand across industries including:

• Environmental science – conservation, climate policy, water quality
• Biomedical research – vaccine development, diagnostics, pharmacology
• Forensics and criminology – crime scene investigation, DNA analysis
• Data science and AI – modelling, machine learning, predictive analytics
• Space and astronomy – research, satellite technology, aerospace

Explore your options: Find your fit with a nationally recognised science course.

Let’s Redefine What Science Looks Like

Science isn’t just for lab coats, elite brains, or sci-fi nerds (though they’re welcome too). It’s for anyone who wants to understand the world, solve meaningful problems, and create a better future. If you’re passionate about discovery, tech, health, or the environment—science needs people like you.

Explore the possibilities and turn your curiosity into a career. Check out our range of online science courses and start your journey.