Pittsburgh's New Citizen Science Lab Opens Doors for Young Explorers

The Citizen Science Lab has officially opened in Pittsburgh’s Hill District. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Friday, marking the end of a year-long construction period. The new facility aims to give local children a space to explore science and technology. Dr. Andre Samuel, the lab’s founder, led the opening by cutting the ceremonial ribbon. Young visitors, including four-year-old Amari Abney and his six-year-old brother Aerius, attended the event. Amari dreams of becoming a spacecraft pilot, while Aerius hopes to be a scientist to ensure his brother’s safe travels in space.

The lab was made possible through fundraising and grants from various organisations. Its mission is to expand STEM opportunities for children in the Hill District. Every room, lab, and classroom is named after historic Black pioneers in science and technology.

After the ceremony, Samuel shared his satisfaction. He remarked, 'I feel great...because the power of promise is nothing if you don’t deliver. You’ve got to deliver.' The lab now offers classes and summer camps for enrolment. The Citizen Science Lab is now open to the community. It provides a dedicated space for learning and inspiration in STEM fields. Children can begin signing up for its programmes immediately.