Transforming STEM into Comedy—and Making it Go Viral

Imagine this scenario: A young woman with dreams of becoming a chemist enters college, only to realize that chemistry isn’t her forte. Her academic journey concludes with a less-than-successful dissertation. Embracing a new path, she enrolls in a stand-up comedy class and decides that humor is the ideal way to approach STEM.

This isn’t just a story. It’s Freya McGhee’s reality. Growing up in London with a passion for science, McGhee pursued chemistry at the University of Brighton. Yet her enthusiasm waned when her thesis, entitled “Synthesis of Iron Nitroxide radical species using radical derivatized ligands and its use as a single-molecule magnet,” didn’t yield the expected results.

“I was lost,” McGhee reflects. “Maybe somebody else could have advanced with it, but it just wasn’t working for me. It was a nightmare.”

With her degree nearing completion, McGhee explored the world of stand-up comedy, crafting laughter from her academic turmoil. This shift resonated on social media, with her Instagram set gaining 4.4 million views. Repeatedly, her comedy sketches attract massive online audiences and spirited commentary. WIRED connected with her in London to uncover strategies for injecting humor into STEM topics.

Making a non-specialist audience laugh at science-based jokes is challenging, particularly because you must first clarify the scientific concept before delivering the punchline, which can slow the momentum.

McGhee found success using PowerPoint. “Presenting the science visually eliminated the pace-breaking explanations. It allowed me to hit the punchline more swiftly. Carrying a clicker while performing blends perfectly with the comedic theme.”

At comedic events like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, McGhee found venues open to her science-themed humor. “It’s like revisiting A-level physics, but in a comedy club—a delightful experience.”

Early performances were taxing, especially if the audience remained unresponsive. An opportunity came in 2023 when McGhee, alongside fellow comedians, participated in a science-themed show. Despite a rocky start, the experience led her to focus more on STEM-centric gigs.

Partnering with her friend Alex, who jokes about math, the duo launched 'Comedians in STEM,' performing in London, Brighton, and Bristol. Comedians with STEM backgrounds take to the stage, using these events to test and refine their humor.

One set, involving a titration setup, has amassed around 10 million views, proving that niche scientific humor can indeed achieve viral success. McGhee notes, “The comments are incredibly specific and hilarious.”

“The key is keeping it broad when it comes to niche topics,” she says. “It’s crucial not to alienate those outside the field. However, performing for a science-savvy audience has its challenges, like risking corrective interruptions instead of heckling.”

Introducing herself with a chemistry degree often prefaces her sets. “If someone in the audience holds a more advanced degree from a prestigious university, I might be in trouble.” Freya recalls a recent performance where she quipped about exothermic reactions, only to receive gentle corrections from the audience.

McGhee is venturing into writing, working on a youth educational book about the periodic table. “The book aims to be both entertaining and informative, anthropomorphizing elements to reflect their properties.”

Balancing her comedy with a full-time role in a male-dominated construction firm, McGhee finds satisfaction in both. “Social media lets you maintain balance, allowing weekend shows and bypassing gigs in less accessible locations.”

Encountering negative remarks online, McGhee remains unfazed, prioritizing her intent to inspire young women in STEM. “I delete harmful comments to protect my audience, particularly young girls, from negativity.”

Aiming for a full hour of comedy, McGhee continues to develop her routine. “Ultimately, I'd like to craft a show with a narrative strength that resonates both with scientists and broader audiences.”