Melak Getu Bire

Leads whole genome sequencing data analysis for bacterial pathogens, developing bioinformatics pipelines and contributing to national genomic surveillance capacity.

• Directed whole genome sequencing data analysis for bacterial pathogens, ensuring high-quality outputs through robust QC, assembly, annotation, and comparative genomics, informing public health interventions.
• Analyzed next-generation sequencing data to monitor antimicrobial resistance and pathogen diversity, providing critical insights for national surveillance programs.
• Engineered and deployed bioinformatics pipelines using Bash, R, and Python, streamlining routine analyses and accelerating research project timelines.
• Executed phylogenetic and population structure analyses, elucidating transmission dynamics of infectious diseases to guide epidemiological strategies.
• Integrated complex bioinformatics results with phenotypic data, enhancing comprehensive interpretation for laboratory teams and improving diagnostic accuracy.
• Mentored over 15 laboratory staff, MSc, and PhD students in bioinformatics tools, database utilization, and data interpretation, building internal capacity.
• Contributed to national pathogen genomics projects, significantly expanding Ethiopia's genomic surveillance capacity and data-driven public health initiatives.
• Authored and co-authored technical reports and manuscripts, leading to successful publication of 14 peer-reviewed articles on infectious disease epidemiology and drug resistance.

Contributed to national research projects and laboratory quality initiatives, mentoring professionals and evaluating novel diagnostic methodologies.

• Contributed to the successful full-scope accreditation of the National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory, ensuring adherence to international quality standards.
• Collaborated on national and international research projects, advancing methodologies in medical laboratory science and contributing to 10+ peer-reviewed publications.
• Evaluated novel diagnostic methodologies, including Truenat and urine LF-LAM assays, improving detection accuracy and efficiency for tuberculosis and other infectious diseases.
• Mentored over 20 laboratory professionals across regional diagnostic laboratories, enhancing their technical proficiency and quality assurance practices.
• Facilitated research for MSc and PhD students, providing expert laboratory support and contributing to their academic and scientific development.
• Developed and produced proficiency testing panels, strengthening the quality control systems for national laboratories and ensuring consistent diagnostic reliability.
• Presented findings and insights at national TB workshops and conferences, contributing to knowledge dissemination and staying abreast of latest advancements in the field.

Conducted precise clinical laboratory diagnoses and tuberculosis testing, gaining hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics and data management.

• Performed precise clinical laboratory diagnoses, ensuring 98%+ accuracy and reliability in patient results for critical health decisions.
• Executed a comprehensive range of tuberculosis tests, including AFB microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF assay, and culture, directly supporting the diagnosis and management of hundreds of TB cases annually.
• Conducted advanced drug profile testing using diverse molecular mechanisms (LPA, phenotypic DST, Truenat assays), identifying drug resistance patterns crucial for effective treatment strategies.
• Mastered core laboratory protocols for sequence analysis, including DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and gel electrophoresis, establishing foundational skills for genomic research.
• Utilized public genomics databases for efficient information retrieval, data extraction, and accurate result interpretation, supporting research and diagnostic efforts.
• Assisted in the development and preparation of proficiency testing panels, contributing to the enhancement of quality control systems across national laboratories.
• Maintained strict adherence to data privacy regulations and best practices, ensuring the secure storage and confidentiality of sensitive biological data.

Supported educational initiatives in Ethiopia by tutoring students, assisting sponsored children, and advocating for educational access.

• Tutored and mentored students, improving academic performance and fostering a positive learning environment.
• Supported sponsored children by identifying their needs and actively seeking out sponsors to ensure continued educational opportunities.
• Collaborated and coordinated various activities to enhance educational programs and community engagement.
• Advocated passionately for education, raising awareness and support for improved access and quality in Ethiopian schools.

Contributed to public health efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic by conducting laboratory testing and ensuring safety protocols.

• Conducted critical laboratory testing for COVID-19, processing numerous samples to support timely diagnosis and public health response.
• Adhered rigorously to stringent safety protocols and guidelines, ensuring a secure and compliant laboratory environment.
• Collaborated effectively with healthcare professionals and laboratory teams to streamline testing workflows and enhance operational efficiency.
• Played a direct role in public health efforts, contributing to disease surveillance and containment strategies during a global pandemic.