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Andre Samuel
Andre Samuel
00:57

Andre Samuel

The Citizen Science Lab

Pittsburgh, PA USA

"One of the greatest assets we have as a species is adaptability."

Career Roadmap

Andre's work combines: Science, Non-Profit Organizations, and Teaching / Mentoring

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Day In The Life

Founder, President & CEO

I blend lab innovation with biological exploration, fostering diverse scientific minds.

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Day In The Life Of A Science Lab CEO

My Day to Day

Every day, I immerse myself in the dynamic world of science, leading Pittsburgh's first public biomedical lab. My mornings might start with strategizing fundraising efforts or collaborating with partners. By afternoon, I'm hands-on in the lab, guiding young minds through groundbreaking experiments in genetic engineering and bio-printing. Whether I'm presenting at conferences or nurturing future STEM leaders, my mission is to make science tangible and thrilling.

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Bachelor's Degree

    Biology, General

    University of the District of Columbia

  • Graduate Degree

    Genomics & Bioinformatics

    The George Washington University

  • Doctorate

    Biology, General

    Duquesne University

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life has been direct

  • 1.

    I grew up in Washington, D.C., which played a big part in fueling my passion for science as it’s home to the Smithsonian and the National Air and Space Museum.

  • 2.

    I started college at Tuskegee University as a pre-veterinary major but wasn’t prepared and ended up dropping out.

  • 3.

    I battled legal trouble, addiction, and homelessness for six years before going back to school, earning my bachelor’s degree from the University of the District of Columbia in biology.

  • 4.

    I spent a few years working in biological and biomedical research, then with monkeys and primates in biosafety level 3 laboratories.

  • 5.

    I decided to apply for a Ph.D. program and earned my doctoral degree in biology from Duquesne University.

  • 6.

    I founded The Citizen Science Lab, a hands-on laboratory open to everyone to experiment and learn through STEAM education.

Defining Moments

Experiences and challenges that shaped me

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  • I ended up dropping out of college and struggled with addiction and homelessness for about six years. What kept me going was the idea that something better was out there. I eventually went back to school and made a better life for myself.