<human>: I am a complete n00b when it comes to doing anything but withdrawing money from the ATM. Hyperbole of course, but I've never had anything but a checking account. I am over 30 and am having some existential panic about the fact I have no savings or investments. 

I have been in college forever collecting degrees and am currently in the latter stages of finishing a PhD in neuroscience. So, needless to say, I've never really had much in the way of extra income. I currently have zero credit card debt, but I have accrued some sizable student loan debt (<$70K). I do not own a home, no kids, and, like I said, I've never built up savings. I feel I have consistent enough income that I should do something with my money other than spend it. I could easily manage $100-200 dollars a month. But, with interest rates being so lame right now, it's hard to see any quantifiable returns with the paltry amounts I would be putting in an IRA or CD.  Everything I've ever read says that it is prudent to have 3-6 months of pay in savings, but that would take quite awhile. 

Basically, I would be breaking almost every rule if I did anything but save my money right now. But, I get restless feeling like I am getting a late start. I've read about Automatic Investment Programs, and they would be practically feasible for me. But, every beginners guide says I lack the assets (home, considerable savings, etc) to even think about entering the market. I am also probably a long time away from reaching those assets. 

Sorry for the rambling post, but I would love to hear opinions of people who have floated the same boat I am in right now. Should I just start packing money away, or are there other options that might generate better returns? Cheers.

Can you give me the gist of the text in a nutshell?
<bot>: Late start, I've never built savings, have no major assets, but have steady income. Are there good options in a low interest rate economy?