So ever since grad school, I have imagined scientists as people who are constantly overworked, underpaid, and depressed

Uh… but you’re not that far off. Maybe not depressed if they really love their work, but some really hate writing up findings and looking for grants because it’s the admin part of the job that no one likes. It’s like every episode of Ologies where it’s a research scientist, she asks what the things they like least about their job is, and it’s always always always hustling for money and writing endless grant applications.