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Elizabeth Sydnor
Elizabeth Sydnor
00:56

Elizabeth Sydnor

Eurofins Medical Device Testing

Lancaster, PA USA

"Reassure yourself that you are as good as you need to be. You’re good enough just as you are."

Career Roadmap

Elizabeth's work combines: Science, Medicine, and Learning / Being Challenged

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Day In The Life

Director of Microbiology

I manage microbiology testing to guarantee the safety of medical devices.

03:23

Day In The Life Of A Director Of Medical Device Microbiology

My Day to Day

My days are dedicated to ensuring the safety of medical devices through rigorous testing. Each day brings a new challenge, whether it's drafting protocols, testing devices like needles for sterility, or analyzing microorganism growth in the lab. I love working with bacteria—the way they grow, the shapes they take—it’s like forming a unique relationship. Knowing my work impacts patient safety and contributes to life-saving innovations is deeply rewarding.

Skills & Education

Advice for getting started

Throughout my career, I've struggled with imposter syndrome and have doubted whether or not I belong in a space, especially as a Black woman. Fortunately, I've had a lot of good people in my corner supporting me. In every role, someone took a chance on me. I constantly remind myself that I'm here for a reason. I want to validate myself so that I can encourage the next people behind me that they belong here too.

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Associate's Degree

    General Studies

    Central Texas College

  • Bachelor's Degree

    Biology, General

    Cleveland State University

Life & Career Milestones

I've taken a lot of twists and turns

  • 1.

    I joined the Army right after high school, working as a petroleum lab specialist and testing fuel for military aviation.

  • 2.

    While in the military, I discovered my passion for science and learned valuable lab skills, which I carried into my civilian life.

  • 3.

    After leaving the Army, I pursued a degree in microbiology while raising my son and working part-time, balancing family, work, and school.

  • 4.

    I started my career in medical device testing, joining a lab in Atlanta, Georgia, where I tested everything from cranial implants to spinal devices.

  • 5.

    My work with medical devices expanded into quality control, regulatory compliance, and leading a cleanroom team at a major manufacturer.

  • 6.

    Now, as Director of Microbiology at Eurofins Medical Device Testing, I lead our team in testing medical devices to ensure they are safe for patients.

  • 7.

    One of my biggest passions is mentoring young women of color, showing them that a career in STEM is possible and impactful.

Defining Moments

How I responded to discouragement

  • THE NOISE

    Messages from Myself:

    Do I belong here? Am I worthy enough to do this?

  • How I responded:

    Throughout my career, I've struggled with imposter syndrome and have doubted whether or not I belong in a space, especially as a Black woman. Fortunately, I've had a lot of good people in my corner supporting me. In every role, someone took a chance on me. I constantly remind myself that I'm here for a reason. I want to validate myself so that I can encourage the next people behind me that they belong here too.