It hasn't been my experience either, but it really depends on where and in what industry those scientists are working. Most of the scientists and geos I know, are fairly liberal.
When I first started working as a geologist in the mining industry, most of my geologist colleagues were very conservative, Rush-listeners -- probably because NPR was the only radio station we could get out in the sticks of Nevada -- and those still are. They were also at least 10, but mostly >15 years older than I was at the time (large age gaps amongst mining geologists is common). I suspect most were probably Atheist, as most geologists generally are, but we did not discuss religion then.
These days, there are a lot of younger mining geos, and they tend to be very liberal, and vocal Atheists. This has resulted in the older geos coming out of the closet with respect to Atheism. Still, though, the industry as a whole remains very conservative, particularly the engineers who tend to also be fairly religious. We get a little Liberal bashing here, but it's not such that it's something I would complain about. It's the nature of the industry and so I adapt.
When it comes to voting, it's not easy for us Liberals in the mining industry. We despise the social conservatism of the Republicans, but the Democrats are often against exploitation of our natural resources. In my case, I vote Democrat and hope that I'm not cutting off my nose to spite my face.