Science doesn’t have to be serious. In fact, it can be loud, bubbly, full of laughter, and even a little tipsy. At least, that’s how Cautney Nelson sees it.
Cautney Nelson is not just the CEO of Science and Sip®. She’s a scientist, entrepreneur, nonprofit founder, and experience creator who believes that science should be fun, accessible, and unforgettable. She has built her career around reimagining what STEM can look like outside the classroom, and her latest project is disrupting (in a very good way) both the science and nightlife scenes.
Who Is Cautney Nelson?
Cautney Tatiana Nelson is the mind behind Science and Sip®, an umbrella of science-based experiences meant to entertain and educate. After earning her degree in biochemistry from Stony Brook University, she quickly realized her passion wasn’t just in the lab, but in building experiences that make science come alive.
With her nonprofit MillennialScnce, she introduced science-focused mentorship programs to underserved communities. Now, she’s channeling her energy into something unexpected, and wildly fun: The Drunken Laboratory.
What Is The Drunken Laboratory?
Located in New York City, The Drunken Laboratory is part bar, part science show, part game night, and part karaoke. It’s a fully immersive experience that turns guests into “scientists for a night,” with real experiments, bubbling beakers, DJ sets, and themed cocktails.
It is a full-blown science party.
Every Friday and Saturday night, the lab opens its doors to curious adults who are ready to mix experiments with music and mixology. Attendees compete in trivia, test their knowledge in quick science pop quizzes, and win free shots. There’s also drunk karaoke, neon lights, club vibes, and interactive hosts with science nicknames.
By this, Cautney aims to make STEM memorable and social.
Changing the Way Adults Experience STEM
Cautney’s goal is to make science a topic of conversation in places where it typically isn’t. Her lab is all about experiencing science so that it feels real and exciting.
And it’s working.
Over 10,000 people have already attended The Drunken Laboratory and have poured in raving reviews. Guests say it’s the “perfect mixture of science experiments (think chemistry class), drinks, shots, shots and more shots, music courtesy of a DJ (hip-hop and R&B, perfect!), drunk karaoke, science pop quizzes, and…” For many, it’s their first time engaging with science since high school, and they leave with memories, laughs, and a new appreciation for STEM.
From Brooklyn to Miami
After strong demand and countless sold-out events, Cautney is now expanding the experience. The Drunken Laboratory is heading to Miami, bringing its quirky science energy to the Sunshine State. This expansion signals a growing appetite for experiences that are both educational and social.
Fun is equal to impact in Cautney’s case.
Why It Works
Cautney has really thought this through by blending science with pop culture. The lab isn’t trying to turn every guest into a biochemist. But it is sparking curiosity. It’s making science cool again, especially for adults who thought they’d left that part of their lives behind.
Her background in STEM gives the experience depth and credibility. Her experience in nonprofit work keeps it grounded. And her creativity keeps the whole thing fresh.
People come for the shots and stay for the learning.
More Than Just a Night Out
Cautney is still deeply involved in STEM education and outreach. Through MillennialScnce, she provides mentorship and career pathways for students in underserved communities. She’s also worked with organizations like the STEM Advocacy Institute to improve how science is communicated to the public.
In everything she does, Cautney challenges who science is for, how it’s delivered, and where it appears.
The Future of Fun Science
With Cautney’s The Drunken Laboratory expanding, the possibilities are endless. Imagine labs in LA, Chicago, London. Imagine science-themed festivals. Imagine partnerships with schools and universities looking for new ways to reach students.
But for now, she’s focused on keeping the lab experience fresh and unforgettable.
Conclusion
Cautney Nelson is reimagining individuals’ engagement with science. Through The Drunken Laboratory, she’s proving that education and entertainment don’t have to be separate. They can, and should, coexist in the same room, with a drink in one hand and a beaker in the other.
