She takes a class in standup comedy and decides the best way to talk about STEM is to make jokes at its expense. WIRED reached McGhee at home in London to talk about what it takes to make STEM funny. ANGELA WATERCUTTER: Obviously you made a pretty abrupt turn from chemistry to comedy, but when you first started doing stand-up were you joking about STEM then, or did you find your way there over time? FREYA MCGHEE: When you’re newer I think it’s easier to get laughs for dating jokes and stuff that’s relatable. But it does feel funny to be doing science jokes and holding a clicker as well.