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.

Nicole Lassinger is a Laboratory Support Technician at the Citizen Science Lab (TCSL). She supports initiatives and programs at TCSL by doing everything she can to make sure the lab is running smoothly. She also spends a lot of time in our labs’ animal room caring for our not-so-furry friends. Nicole has a passion working with children and wants to equip them with everything they need to succeed, not just here at the lab but in life. 

Nicole has a BS in Biology from Westminster College and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Point Park University. Outside of work, Nicole likes to coach track and field, spend time outside, and hang out with her family.

Garrett Struble is the Lead Instructor of Biology and Life Sciences at The Citizen Science Lab (TCSL). Garrett aspires to build a career in the non-profit sector that combines his love for science and passion for teaching. By sharing the critical thinking and scientific method of questioning he acquired through his own independent research, Garrett aims to provide students with the necessary framework for scientific discovery.

Garrett holds a BS in Biology and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science and Management from Duquesne University. During his time at Duquesne University, Garrett completed a thesis which details the chemistry and microbial community of a passive remediation system for abandoned mine drainage.

Outside of work, Garrett enjoys spending time outdoors, making art, and caring for his plants.

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.