Science is rarely described as electric. But in Cautney Nelson’s world, it fizzes, pops, and lights up like a beaker under pressure. It sings, it dances, and occasionally takes a shot.
Cautney Tatiana Nelson is the creator and CEO of The Drunken Laboratory, a wildly original combination of science, entertainment, and social engagement. It began as an effort to connect underserved students with science through her nonprofit MillennialScnce and has now grown into a multi-city experience drawing thousands of adults eager to experiment, sip, and celebrate the joy of learning.
From a makeshift classroom to full-on science raves, Nelson is changing the way we think about STEM.
A New Equation: Science + Sip = Impact
Before Cautney Nelson created a national trend, she saw a local problem. Working with youth in vulnerable neighborhoods, she noticed their curiosity was intact, but the system wasn’t able to nurture it. That’s when MillennialScnce was born. It introduced students to career paths in STEM through interactive workshops, mentorship, and field trips.
But Nelson didn’t stop there. She noticed another audience left out of the science conversation: adults.
So she built The Drunken Laboratory, where science is for everyone… and lab coats meet cocktail glasses.
What makes the experience work:
- Real experiments: Attendees mix, pour, and ignite reactions themselves. Yes, with actual beakers and goggles.
- Games and trivia: Guests win free shots by correctly answering science questions.
- Karaoke and DJs: A night of molecular bonding often ends with musical bonding.
- Atmosphere: Think club meets chemistry class, but better dressed.
This isn’t a gimmick. The experiments are real. The learning is real. And the community impact is unbelievable.
The Ripple Effect: What Started in Brooklyn Is Moving Across America
What started in New York has already gained traction elsewhere. Miami is next on the map, with other cities on the horizon.
Cautney’s vision has enabled her to build a brand that changes perceptions:
- Science is fun, not intimidating.
- STEM is accessible, not just for the elite.
- Learning can happen anywhere, even over drinks.
Her approach has created:
- Over 10,000 guests served through The Drunken Laboratory.
- Hundreds of student participants in MillennialScnce programs.
- A pipeline of visibility for STEM careers in underrepresented communities.
She has shown that science doesn’t have to be taught; it can be felt, tasted, and remembered.
From Beakers to Business Strategy
Nelson holds a degree in Biochemistry from Stony Brook University. She used her experience as a SAi Fellow and a nonprofit founder to create an experience-driven business model that intersects education and entertainment.
Cautney’s Signature Moves:
- Building immersive environments from scratch.
- Pairing community engagement with profit-making ventures.
- Creating equity in science spaces through joy, not lectures.
It’s part educator, part entrepreneur, part experience architect. She calls it “Science and Sip.” And it works.
What the Reviews Say
You can measure success in metrics. Or you can listen to what people are saying:
- “We had a TIMEEEEEE! That’s FOR SURE.”
- “It was the perfect mixture of science experiments (think chemistry class), drinks, shots, shots, and more shots.”
- “My daughter has never been so excited to do science.”
- “I traveled from Harlem… Worth it.”
- “Everything about this place is top-notch! I can’t wait to make it a go-to spot for family and friends. Highly recommend!”
This isn’t like just another night out. And it’s definitely not like a boring science lesson.
Conclusion
Cautney Nelson’s work shows that learning doesn’t always need a desk or a whiteboard. Sometimes, it needs a DJ, a pipette, and a curious crowd ready to cheer for science.
Through The Drunken Laboratory and MillennialScnce, she’s changing what STEM looks like and who feels welcome in it.
More than just entertainment, these ventures spark conversations around equity, access, and innovation in education. Each event reminds guests that curiosity doesn’t expire after school. For Cautney Nelson, science is culture. It’s a celebration. It’s changed.
As her work expands into new cities, so does her impact, creating a future where science belongs to everyone, no lab coat required.
It started with one idea in a disadvantaged classroom. Today, it’s a national movement with glowing test tubes and glowing reviews.
