Alexander Zabrodskiy

A passionate and committed microbiologist with 7+ years of experience in fast-paced, high-volume pathology. I am devoted to teamwork, adaptable to changing priorities, and focused on making a positive impact in community health and safety.

Core Competencies

Diagnostic Culture Interpretation (CSF, Blood, Sterile Fluids) Pathogen Identification (MALDI-TOF, VITEK) NATA Quality Systems & Compliance Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) EUCAST/CLSI Standards & QC Staff Training & Competency Lab Automation (Kiestra, TECAN, Vitek) Antimicrobial Resistance (ESBL) Clinical Microscopy (Urine, Parasites) Antifungal & Antibiotic Resistance Research

Beyond the Microscope

The observational skills I've developed in the lab translate naturally to my interest in photography. Whether capturing star trails or macro shots of insects, I'm drawn to patterns and details that might otherwise go unnoticed. This habit of looking closely at both specimens and landscapes shapes how I approach problems in and out of the lab.

Professional Statement

Dedicated microbiology scientist with 7+ years' experience across high-volume private pathology and public hospital settings. Proven expertise in diagnostic microbiology, NATA-compliant quality systems, and staff training. Committed to delivering accurate, timely results that support excellent patient care and clinical decision-making.

Employment History

Laboratory Scientist, Microbiology

Melbourne Pathology

Feb 2022 - Current

Conducted high-volume diagnostic testing on diverse clinical specimens (CSF, blood cultures, tissues, sterile fluids).
Documented all test results according to laboratory SOPs, ensuring compliance with NATA standards.
Performed indirect sensitivity testing by disc zones and VITEK interpretation.
Trained and mentored numerous staff members in microbiological techniques and laboratory procedures.
Maintained NATA accreditation by executing daily quality control and validation across all key platforms (Culture media, AST, MALDI-TOF).
Operated and maintained automated systems (TECAN, Atellica 1500, Vitek, MALDI, Biofire, BD BACTEC). Holds BD Kiestra advanced certification.
Routinely performed CSF and blood culture processing, including consultations with physicians and pathologists.
Assessed for critically important antimicrobial resistances (ESBLs) with MDU interactions.
Performed urine and parasite microscopy including RBC morphology and sediment analysis.

Research Scientist

2021 - 2022

Participated in isolation of potential treatment for emerging *Nakaseomyces glabrata* using thymoquinone.
Conducted *Klebsiella pneumoniae* antibiotic resistance and emerging ESBL pattern study.

Laboratory Assistant, Microbiology

Melbourne Pathology

2017 - 2021

Worked independently out of hours, performing microbiological tests to provide accurate results in a timely manner.
Aseptically trained in manually processing tissues, sterile and non-sterile fluids, blood cultures, sputums and swabs.
Experienced in antigen testing for atypical bacteria.

Education & Certification

AIMS Certification

Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Microbiology)

RMIT University

2017 - 2021

Diploma of Laboratory Technology

RMIT University

2016 - 2017