Alivia Lyles

Medical Laboratory Scientist – Microbiology

• Perform microbiological testing and diagnostic procedures to aid in the detection and identification of infectious pathogens.
• Set up and process microbiological cultures, ensuring appropriate specimen handling and adherence to established laboratory protocols.
• Perform molecular diagnostic testing using PCR-based platforms, including the TORCH system for pneumonia and respiratory pathogen panels.
• Conduct molecular testing on Cepheid platforms for Group B Streptococcus (GBS), Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), and other designated infectious disease assays.
• Prepare, perform, and interpret Gram stains to evaluate clinical specimens for the presence and morphology of microorganisms, supporting preliminary microbiological assessment.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation in accordance with established procedures, including performing routine maintenance, quality control, and troubleshooting as assigned.
• Follow laboratory safety standards, infection prevention practices, and quality assurance procedures to maintain testing accuracy and specimen integrity.
• Document and review test results in accordance with laboratory policies, established testing procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with laboratory personnel and healthcare professionals to support timely, accurate, and reliable diagnostic testing.

Clinical Laboratory Rotations – Cape Fear
Clinical Laboratory Science Practicum

• Completed comprehensive clinical rotations across multiple laboratory departments, including hematology, blood bank/transfusion services, microbiology, and urinalysis.
• Performed hands-on laboratory procedures under the supervision of experienced laboratory professionals, applying established testing protocols and quality assurance practices.
• Hematology: Gained practical experience with hematology instrumentation, complete blood count (CBC) analysis, peripheral blood smear review, and routine hematological testing.
• Blood Bank/Transfusion Services: Participated in blood typing, Rh determination, antibody screening, compatibility testing, and transfusion-related laboratory procedures.
• Microbiology: Performed specimen processing, culture setup, Gram staining, and microbiological testing to support the detection and identification of infectious organisms.
• Urinalysis: Conducted physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine specimens to evaluate clinically significant findings.
• Applied laboratory safety protocols, infection control measures, quality control procedures, and proper specimen handling techniques throughout clinical training.
• Developed competency in operating laboratory instrumentation, interpreting analytical findings, documenting results, and recognizing results requiring additional review.
• Adapted to the workflow and testing requirements of multiple laboratory departments while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and attention to detail.