Great Science Geek Gifts for All

[illuminati]

If you have a difficult-to-buy for Ph.D. or science club president (nerd alert!) on your gift list this holiday season, don't settle for socks or underwear because you figure everyone needs them. Sure we do, but they rank about a one out of 10 on the fun-to-get-as-a-present-o-meter.

Wired News surveyed scientists around the country to find out what was on their wish lists. Francis Collins, director of the National Human Genome Research Institute, wants a machine that can decode the human genome for $1,000. While we wait for someone to invent that übertool, check out the Wired News science geek gift guide for presents that will show your nerdy friends and relatives you understand the things their superior brains like. You'll find mind-expanding gift ideas for everyone on your list, from AP chemistry students to zebra-fish genome researchers.

Science geeks love games, but the diversions must challenge the brain more than, say, Chutes and Ladders. Blokus ($30) is a favorite at the Exploratorium Store (which has lots more science-y gift ideas). They say the game develops logic and spatial perception. Plus, Blokus was game of the year in Europe in 2002.

More: http://wired.com/news/holidays/0%2C1882 ... _tophead_2