Scientists show off their profession in tattoos

Story from PRI’s Studio 360. Listen to audio above for full report.

Tattoos are the defining fashion statement of the present generation. A few years ago, the writer Carl Zimmer was at a pool party and found that a young scientist friend of his, a neurobiologist, had a double helix printed on his back — a little strand of DNA.  

Zimmer blogged about it, and before he knew it, dozens of scientists, mathematicians, and other academics were sending him photos and stories about their tattoos. Not anchors, skulls, and hearts, but creative designs that represent lifelong passions.

“When you really believe in what you do,” said Bob Datta, the friend with the DNA tattoo, “it becomes a part of you.”

Zimmer compiled a book called Science Ink. Studio 360’s Lu Olkowski spoke with two people who bare some skin in his book about what inspired them to go under the needle.

Visit the Studio360 website to see examples of some of the tattoos.

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PRI’s Peabody Award-winning “Studio 360 with Kurt Andersen” from WNYC is public radio’s smart and surprising guide to what’s happening in pop culture and the arts. Each week, Kurt Andersen introduces you to the people who are creating and shaping our culture. Life is busy — so let “Studio 360” steer you to the must-see movie this weekend, the next book for your nightstand, or the song that will change your life.