But both characters are scientific idealists who don't care to dirty their hands with money.

ECONOMIST: Science in fiction is not science fiction

They don't get their hands dirty selling crack, cocaine or heroin on street corners or driving the lorries bringing in illegal immigrants.

BBC: Handcuffs

She wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty.

CNN: SHARE THIS

In other words, unless you're willing to get your hands a bit dirty, the NUC isn't for you.

ENGADGET

This is the sort of "dirty laundry" one doesn't want to fall into the hands of those who might potentially try to distort things...

WSJ: Climate Emails: Science and Candor