About Me

Hello there, I’m Sydney Johnston. 

A microbiologist, creative mind, and adventurer.  

I am a graduate of Iowa State University as of November 2020, earning a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology along with a minor in Emerging Global Diseases. Quite the year to do so, I’d say! 

While pursuing my bachelor’s degree, I developed a passion for extremophiles, advanced genetic technology, and bringing quality— yet creative— information on general microbiology topics to the world around me. I led the Iowa State departmental Microbiology Club for 2 years serving as Vice President in 2019, followed by President for the year of 2020. Navigating the challenges of the SARS-CoV2 Pandemic required innovative changes, new perspectives and priorities, and striving to develop new ways of making the club a role model for the whole campus.  

Currently, I am a Research Scientist Engineer II at the Northwestern Genomics Center in Seattle, Washington. On the campus of the University of Washington, I lead Dr. Debbie Nickerson’s Library Construction Team processing RNA, DNA, and exome samples with robotic liquid handling and automated workstations for local PI’s, private research studies, and the global NIH-funded All of Us Research Program. As part of a small team within a large lab of ~30, I understand the importance of accuracy, consistency, and clear communication channels between teams. 

As a colleague and employee, my strengths are in communication, organization, and training. I am highly accountable, striving to be independent and responsible for myself and my work. As a cheerful and supportive person, I aim to make those around me comfortable and feel accepted no matter our differences. Personal interests in graphic design, cultural experiences, and photography influence my interdisciplinary approach to life and enhance my multifaceted perspective. Ultimately, I am a risk-taker, an innovator, and an eager learner.