Headstone Ideas for a Scientist or Researcher

Some of history's most famous gravestones carry an equation. A scientist's memorial can celebrate a life of curiosity.

Symbol ideas

• Atom
• DNA double helix
• Microscope or telescope
• Molecule structure
• Stars and planets

Etched scene ideas

• The night sky with a telescope
• A lab bench
• A field study location

See custom etched scenes.

Personal touches

• "Ph.D." or "Dr."
• A meaningful equation or formula
• Their field of research

Epitaph ideas

• Forever curious
• She looked at the stars and wondered
• The search continues
• Discovery was his joy
• Made of stardust

Design tips

• Equations need careful proofing — see the proof approval checklist.
• Line diagrams etch crisply.
• Clean modern fonts suit scientific symbols.

Sample layout for a scientist

Have a colleague proofread any formula character by character.

Matching the symbol to the field

A generic atom can feel impersonal. A symbol from their own discipline says more:

• Biology and medicine — a DNA helix, a cell or a microscope.
• Chemistry — a benzene ring or a favourite molecule.
• Physics — an orbit diagram or a meaningful equation.
• Astronomy — the night sky or a telescope; see stargazer ideas.
• Earth sciences — a rock cross-section, a volcano or a map.
• Mathematics — a favourite proof or constant such as π.

If they published, the title of their best-known paper can go on the back. Ask a colleague to check any technical detail before approval.

Key Takeaways

• Atoms and DNA are popular emblems.
• A formula can be engraved precisely.
• Proof technical text carefully.

Next Step

Try these ideas in the Design Studio or request a quote.