Mariama Haja Turay

Microbiologist

I am motivated to pursue a career as a microbiologist driven by my passion for understanding microorganisms and their roles in human, animal, and environmental health. My academic background in microbiology and immunology, combined with practical experience in molecular diagnostics, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and animal sampling, has equipped me with the technical expertise to contribute effectively to both research and applied public health. I am particularly driven by the challenge of addressing antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases, areas where microbiology plays a critical role in safeguarding communities and informing evidence-based interventions. Beyond technical skills, I bring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities developed through mentoring peers, training health workers, and coordinating cross-sectoral projects. I am motivated by opportunities that allow me to bridge laboratory science with real-world impact, ensuring that research findings translate into practical solutions. By joining your institution, I aim to contribute to advancing microbiological research, strengthening laboratory systems, and supporting innovations that improve public health.

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Years experience
0
Project
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Languages
Work Experience
Laboratory Scientist
Central Veterinary Laboratory
2023 — 2026
  • Prepared reagents, culture media, and laboratory solutions following standard protocols.
  • Performed point-of-care testing such as rapid diagnostic tests for infectious diseases.
  • Participated in weekly group meetings and case discussions to review laboratory findings.
  • Followed strict infection control and safety protocols in all laboratory procedures.
  • Conducted PCR, AMR testing, serological testing, and parasitic detection.
  • Participated in surveillance and One Health coordination.
  • Supported digital reporting and laboratory diagnostics.
  • Utilized microscopy, sterilization and aseptic techniques, sample preparation and preservation, hemagglutination inhibition, and parasitic diagnosis.
  • Conducted microbiological tests on samples to detect pathogens.
  • Isolated and identified microorganisms using culture techniques, staining, and biochemical assays.
  • Performed molecular diagnostics such as PCR, ELISA, and DNA sequencing to detect specific microbial genes.
  • Analyzed antimicrobial susceptibility to guide treatment and monitor resistance trends.
  • Performed meta-analysis, logistic regression, survival analysis, selection of cases and controls, and data collection.
  • Interpreted lab results and prepared detailed reports for public health officials and stakeholders.
  • Maintained accurate records of experiments, sample tracking, and quality control procedures.
  • Ensured compliance with biosafety, quality assurance, and regulatory standards.
  • Trained lab technicians and interns in sample collection, handling, and basic microbiology.
  • Designed SOPs and protocols for consistent lab practices and emergency response.
Laboratory Assistant
Koidu Government Hospital Kono
Apr 2023 — Jun 2023
  • Assisted with sample processing and diagnostic testing, including ELISA, microbiological cultures, hematology panels, and serological assays.
  • Managed patient and corporate information with accuracy, compassion, and confidentiality.
  • Performed venipuncture and phlebotomy for blood sample collection.
  • Conducted urine and stool sample analysis for routine and specialized testing.
  • Prepared and stained blood smears and tissue slides for microscopic examination.
  • Assisted in clinical chemistry tests, including glucose, liver function, and renal panels.
  • Participated in quality control procedures to ensure reliable laboratory results.
Projects
Field Epidemiology Training Program

Focused on health surveillance techniques and methodologies. Engaged in training sessions and applied knowledge in practical scenarios to enhance public health systems.

Skills
Research and DevelopmentLaboratory Safety ProtocolsData Analysis and ReportingProject ManagementMicrosoft ExcelData Management SoftwareStatistical Analysis Software (e.g., SPSS, R)Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
Education
Master of Science, Vaccine Production and Quality Control
Pan African University of Life and Earth Science Institute at the University of Ibadan
Bachelor of Science, Microbiology
Ernest Bai Koroma University of Science and Technology
Certifications
QWArS Professional Qualification Phase 2
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Field Epidemiology Training Program
Ministry of Health
References
Mr. Julius Sombie
Microbiologist · Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute
Former Colleague
[email protected] · +232 75295025
Dr. Jacqueline Lichoti
ECTAD Laboratory Expert · Food and Agricultural Organization
Former Supervisor
[email protected] · +232 79244624
Dr. Abdul Rahman Conteh
District Veterinary Officer · Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security
Mentor
[email protected] · +23272706909
Languages
English
Native
Krio
Native
Themne
Native
French
Basic
Hometown
Makeni

Originally from Makeni, Sierra Leone.

Training and Qualifications
Simulated Exercises
The Consortium of SeqAfrica
August-September 2025

Engaged in simulated exercises to enhance field epidemiology and laboratory practice.

ASLM Ambassador
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Jun 2025

Represented the African Society for Laboratory Medicine to promote laboratory medicine and networking.

Policy Advocacy in Genetics and Genomics
Pan-African PGS Education and Research Initiative (PAPERI)
June – July 2025

Involved in policy advocacy efforts to improve genetic and genomic research in Africa.

Quality Management System
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Mar 2025

Participated in training focused on biosafety, biosecurity, risk management, and logistics management.

AMR Data Management
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Feb 2025

Received training in managing AMR data effectively to inform research and public health decisions.

Bacteriology Testing for the Identification and AST of GLASS Priority Pathogens
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Feb 2025

Trained in testing methods for GLASS priority pathogens, emphasizing antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Preventive Maintenance of Main Laboratory Equipment
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Feb 2025

Gained knowledge in preventive maintenance to ensure operational efficiency of laboratory equipment.

Introduction to Antimicrobial Resistance
African Society for Laboratory Medicine
Feb 2025

Fundamental training on antimicrobial resistance and its implications in public health.

Raising Awareness on the Responsible Use of Antibiotics in Livestock
Food and Agricultural Organization
Jan 2025

Engaged in initiatives to raise awareness on responsible antibiotic usage in livestock management.