Our Team

Andre Samuel, a long-time resident of Washington, DC, graduated from the University of the District of Columbia with a degree in Biology. Following graduate study at the George Washington University in Genomics and Bioinformatics, he received his PhD in Biology from Duquesne University. At Duquesne, his research focused on studying the structure and function of the cold shock related proteins in E. coli.

As a Ph.D. candidate, Dr. Samuel founded the S.I.G.M.A Science Mentorship Initiative, a summer study program designed to introduce diverse ninth graders to the University’s lab with the long-term goal of encouraging the pursuit of careers in scientific research. Dr. Samuel’s research experience includes studying toxicology and carcinogenicity effects of novel drugs, hookworm vaccine development and tuberculosis reactivation in non-human primates.

Dr. Samuel has a passion for STEM education and life science research. He believes that creating fun engaging and hands on lab experiences for people is the best pathway to an interest in STEM.

Chris Wandell is originally from Central New York State, where he began studying for a career in field research. After a surprise summer teaching at his local nature center, he fell in love with the idea of teaching in a non-traditional environment.

Nikki N’kenge Feagin is the Grants and Communications Manager at The Citizen Science Lab.  Nikki has committed her professional career to reducing inequities for underserved communities.

Nikki holds a BA in English from the University of the District of Columbia, and a MFA from Rutgers University.  A proud graduate of an HBCU, Nikki embraces Malcolm X’s philosophy of education being the passport to the future.

When not at TCSL, Nikki enjoys reading, traveling, and going to museums and galleries.

Selena Ragland (they/them) heils from Rochester, NY as an educator, activist, and creative. They relocated to Pittsburgh in 2021 continuing a 9 year career in sexual health education, after receiving their Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences.

Selena loves sharing new knowledge with others that may lead to that wide-eyed “aha!” moment, and hopes to both inspire & empower the next generation through exciting educational experiences.

Nyabingi Michie is a proud graduate of the prestigious Lincoln University, the very first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. Born with a deep-rooted passion for the natural world, “Iya” has always been captivated by the mysteries of our environment, from the towering mountains to the tiniest organisms.

Nicole is a Lead Instructor here at The Citizen Science Lab. She is passionate about inclusive, project-based, and student-centered learning. Nicole creates fun and enriching experiences for young scientists, by developing and teaching fun and hands-on curriculum. She is always looking for new and creative ways to inspire youth in STEM.

Nicole graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with a minor in education. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors, baking, and painting.