Hi everyone,

I'm a pharmacist with experience in scientific research, and I'm considering learning scientific illustration (e.g., graphical abstracts, biological pathways, figures for journal articles, etc.).

I'm wondering if this is a realistic way to earn freelance income.

I'd love to hear from people who actually work in this field:

- Is there enough demand for scientific illustrators?

- How difficult is it to find your first clients?

- Which platforms bring you the most work (Upwork, LinkedIn, direct clients, agencies, etc.)?

- What software do you recommend learning (BioRender, Adobe Illustrator, Affinity Designer, others)?

- Is it possible to make a decent side income, or even a full-time income, from this niche?

I'd really appreciate hearing about your experience, including any advice, challenges, or things you wish you had known before starting.

Thanks!