Meet the team

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Samantha Yammine, PhD

Chair & Executive Producer

Dr. Samantha Yammine is a Neuroscientist turned Science Communicator more popularly known as Science Sam. She’s built an engaged community of over 250k+ people across social media platforms, is the host of Discovery’s flagship science podcast, Curiosity Weekly, and is a regular science expert on CTV’s The Good Stuff with Mary Berg. Sam leads strategic partnerships and science communication training for all Science is a Drag performers.

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Carrie Boyce, MA Cantab

Vice Chair & Executive Producer

Carrie Boyce is the Executive Director of the Royal Canadian Institute for Science. An award-winning science communicator with over a decade of experience, it’s fair to say she’s become a Jack of all trades, master of some.

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Shawn Hercules, MPH, PhD

Treasurer & Head of Drag

Dr. Shawn Hercules is a clinical epidemiologist with expertise in molecular cancer biology and health equity. Originally from Barbados, Shawn did not fully embrace his queer identity but now lives and performs in Toronto as a fabulous drag queen that goes by Dr. Rawbyn Diamonds (@rawbyndiamonds).

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Daniel Celeste, MBDC

Brand and Creative Director

Daniel Celeste is a Medical Affairs professional in the pharmaceutical industry with experience across therapy areas including cardiorenal/metabolic disease, contraception, and vaccines. He has also led multiple 2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Groups in top pharma companies. Daniel is known for compelling science communication, which he also channels into appearances in drag as Ms. Medisin (@msmedisin).

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Angelico Obille, PhD Candidate

Project Management Lead

Angelico (a.k.a. ScientistAnjo) is completing their PhD in biomedical engineering at the University of Toronto, where they study mollusks found in the Great Lakes to help develop improved medical adhesives. Inspired by the quagga mussel they research, Angelico performs in drag as Kwaga Musselle. A talented singer and pianist, as well as a Filipino non-binary scientist, Angelico aims to show current and future generations that anyone can be a successful scientist — all you need is curiosity.

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Geith Maal-Bared, PhD

Event Co-Producer

Dr. Geith Maal-Bared is a Behavioural Neuroscientist and part-time Lecturer at the University of Toronto. He now leads Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager at Air Canada. Geith was born and raised in Saudi Arabia, and currently lives and performs in Toronto as Coco Verdose.