Summary
Layla Donna Fitzgerald is a distinguished Starfleet officer currently serving as the Chief Science Officer aboard the Federation space station Deep Space 19. With an extensive background in diverse scientific fields, Layla is widely respected for her exceptional knowledge, innovative ideas, and remarkable problem-solving abilities, which have contributed significantly to the success of numerous scientific endeavours during her illustrious career. Her unwavering dedication to the pursuit of scientific excellence has earned her a reputation as one of the most accomplished and invaluable members of the Deep Space 19 crew.
Appearance
Layla is a fitness enthusiast who prioritises her well-being through regular gym sessions or going dancing. She loves experimenting with her hairstyle, often switching up her look to reflect her mood and personality. Whether on or off duty, she exudes an air of sophistication and elegance, always impeccably groomed and dressed to impress. Her attention to detail and commitment to personal excellence are evident in every aspect of her life.
- Height: 5′ 7″ (1.7m)
- Weight: 117 lbs
- Hair: Black
- Eyes: Brown
Personality
Layla is a person who exudes a calm and laid-back demeanour in all aspects of life. She is self-assured in her ability to run her department and takes satisfaction in completing tasks efficiently and effectively. While this approach generally serves her well, it can occasionally lead to unexpected challenges. Nevertheless, Layla is always open to learning from her mistakes and using them as opportunities for growth and development.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strongly influenced by her father, Layla is devoted to her studies and finds herself most comfortable in situations where she can rely on science to guide her. At times, she can go to extremes by pushing herself too hard to accomplish a goal or prove a theory and is stubborn in confessing to any weakness in completing her goal. Aside from work, Layla is mostly very private and does not open up easily. To those friends she makes, she is loyal to. Her most serious relationship involved a fellow scientist, David Carter, who was assigned to her research group during her first-ever assignment. They did not speak for some time when the relationship fell apart until he was unexpectedly assigned to the USS Odyssey under Layla’s command, forcing them to work together again. Although the friendship is strained, they share a common background and understand one another perfectly, which gives her someone to confide in when things get tough.
Her marriage to Commander Sturok was a surprising one as both of them were opposite to each other. Over the years, she had learned to enjoy life and be more outgoing, while he was the complete opposite. Very reserved. Nevertheless, their marriage works, and she loves him dearly. She often teases him, and this is something he endures, especially in front of their close colleagues.
Ambitions
Layla had never imagined herself sitting in the captain’s chair. However, her passion for exploring the unknown ignited a spark within her, and she now dreams of commanding a top-quality science vessel to venture into the depths of uncharted territories. She made the decision early on in her career to enjoy every moment and not rush through it, like so many others. If she had done so, by now, she would most likely be a captain. She envisions herself leading a team of skilled professionals on an exciting journey of discovery, uncovering the mysteries of the universe and unravelling the secrets of the cosmos. The thought of being at the helm of a cutting-edge spacecraft and charting new frontiers fills her with a sense of adventure and purpose.
History
Political Information
- Affiliation: Starfleet, United Federation of Planets
Family
- Mother: Doctor Emily Fitzgerald – Deceased
- Father: Professor James Fitzgerald of Archer University
- Brother: David Fitzgerald, Starfleet Captain of the USS Truro (NCC-96147)
- Brother: Doctor Rick Fitzgerald, Phlox Medical Research Insitute
- Sister: Tracey Fitzgerald, Starfleet Lieutenant Commander of USS Rutland (NCC-96253)
- Sister: Doctor Victoria O’Connor, Pharos University
- Husband: Commander Sturok, Starfleet Commander of Deep Space 19
Biography
Early Life
Professor Fitzgerald was a well-known scientist, and his youngest child, Layla, was born into a family renowned for their scientific excellence. Her father recognised her natural ability from an early age and decided to take an active role in her upbringing, encouraging and nurturing her talents. He saw potential in her that he believed deserved the best education possible. That’s why he made the bold decision to send her to Vulcan to complete her studies. Although Layla missed her siblings terribly, she was fascinated by the different cultures she encountered and was eager to explore the world that was opened up to her. The experience of studying on Vulcan proved to be invaluable for Layla’s personal and intellectual growth.
Starfleet Academy
Layla was a determined, ambitious young woman eager to make her father proud. She grew up in an intellectually stimulating environment, surrounded by some of the finest minds who once taught at her father’s side. From a very young age, Layla was encouraged to focus on her studies and sacrificed what many would consider a normal childhood to pursue her academic goals.
Layla followed her brother’s footsteps despite her father’s expectations and attended Starfleet Academy. She was enticed by the promise of adventure and the opportunity to prove herself away from her father’s shadow. However, this decision came at a cost, and Layla had to confront her father’s disapproval and the challenges of adjusting to life away from home.
Layla formed close friendships with perhaps the most unexpected people at the academy. Despite their differences, they bonded over their shared struggles and found that depending on each other, they could overcome their weaknesses. Through these relationships, Layla realised what she had missed out on during her life, but her determination and strong-willed nature kept her focused on her goals. She worked tirelessly to ensure she graduated with honours, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to excellence.
Service Record
Date | Position | Posting | Rank |
---|---|---|---|
2368 - 2369 | Cadet First Year | Starfleet Academy |
Cadet Freshman Grade |
2369 - 2370 | Cadet Second Year | Starfleet Academy |
Cadet Sophomore Grade |
2370 - 2371 | Cadet Third Year | Starfleet Academy |
Cadet Junior Grade |
2371 - 2372 | Cadet Fourth Year | Starfleet Academy |
Cadet Senior Grade |
2372 - 2374 | Science Officer |
USS Odyssey (NCC-72503) Sovereign-class |
Ensign |
2374 - 2378 | Assistant Chief Science Officer |
USS Odyssey (NCC-72503) Sovereign-class |
Lieutenant Junior Grade |
2378 - 2381 | Assistant Chief Science Officer |
USS Odyssey (NCC-72503) Sovereign-class |
Lieutenant |
2381 - 2384 | Chief Science Officer |
USS Trinity (NCC-80421) Obena-class |
Lieutenant |
2384 - 2386 | Chief Science Officer |
USS Trinity (NCC-80421) Obena-class |
Lieutenant Commander |
2386 - 2387 | Chief Science Officer |
USS Odyssey (NCC-72503) Sovereign-class |
Lieutenant Commander |
2387 - 2399 | Chief Science Officer |
Deep Space 19 Unity-class |
Lieutenant Commander |
2399 - Present | Chief Science Officer |
Deep Space 19 Unity-class |
Commander |