Zeba Fariha Nashid
Microbiologist, Scientific Officer, Project Assistant
Summary
Results-oriented Environmental and Microbiology Specialist with 7+ years of experience in laboratory diagnostics, WASH program implementation, and humanitarian response across high-pressure, cross-cultural settings. Proven track record in microbiological testing, water quality surveillance, and interdepartmental coordination, supporting public health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Currently pursuing an MSc in Environmental and Resource Management at BTU Cottbus, with growing expertise in sustainable systems and resource governance. Actively developing German language skills (A2). Eager to contribute to impactful roles in sustainability, microbiology, or public health within Germany's dynamic research, NGO, or environmental sectors.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
2026
2026
years of post-secondary education
4
4
Certifications
4
4
Languages
Work History
Project Assistant - WASH
International Organization for Migration (IOM- UN Migration)
07.2019 - 12.2023
- Conducted weekly analysis of 120 water samples and 18 wastewater samples from 11 Rohingya refugee camps, ensuring thorough biological, chemical, and physical testing in compliance with WHO standards.
- Ensured strict adherence to safety protocols and QA/QC procedures, minimizing lab errors and ensuring data accuracy for critical health decisions.
- Trained 30–45 field and laboratory staff every 3 months on standardized water sampling and handling techniques, enhancing data reliability and field efficiency.
- Produced and disseminated comprehensive weekly water quality reports, including actionable recommendations, to WASH stakeholders for rapid response and risk mitigation.
- Maintained 100% operational readiness of the water quality lab by managing a detailed reagent inventory, updating stock every 4 months, and proactively forecasting supply needs.
- Initiated and streamlined lab processes to optimize testing turnaround time, enabling faster intervention in waterborne disease prevention.
- Collaborated closely with the Technical Advisor, National Programme Officer (WASH), and camp focal points to ensure timely water safety improvements across all camps.
- Performed additional duties as assigned, consistently demonstrating flexibility, commitment, and a solution-oriented approach in a high-pressure humanitarian context.
Microbiologist
BRAC HCMP
12.2017 - 07.2019
- Monitored daily water supply systems from source to distribution across the world's largest refugee camp, ensuring safe drinking water delivery to refugees and host communities in line with SPHERE and WHO standards.
- Tested 240+ water samples weekly, performing chemical (2–3 parameters), physical, and bacteriological (2 types) analyses to ensure water safety and rapidly respond to contamination risks.
- Led emergency water treatment interventions, including chlorination and corrective actions, reducing public health risks and ensuring uninterrupted access to safe water.
- Supervised 3 field team members and 2 lab technicians, ensuring daily residual chlorine monitoring at key water points and randomly selected households to maintain consistent water quality standards.
- Coordinated with 60 hygiene promoters and 3 team leads to implement large-scale community awareness campaigns on safe water handling, reducing risks of waterborne disease at the household level.
- Delivered immediate reporting and actionable recommendations in response to any signs of contamination, enabling swift mitigation and safeguarding health for thousands.
- Strengthened cross-functional collaboration between WASH, hygiene promotion, and field operations teams to improve water safety outcomes across all camps and host areas.
Microbiologist
Green Crescent Health Services
07.2017 - 11.2017
- Processed 50–150 patient blood samples daily in a high-volume service laboratory, performing microbiological evaluations when required to support accurate and timely clinical diagnostics.
- Extracted DNA/RNA from urine samples for PCR amplification to detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae, contributing to early STI diagnosis and targeted treatment.
- Conducted microscopy on 35–50 sputum samples daily for Tuberculosis detection and performed direct fecal examinations to identify motile parasites and helminth eggs for effective parasite diagnosis.
- Maintained strict adherence to laboratory quality control and biosafety protocols, ensuring diagnostic accuracy, reducing contamination risks, and supporting overall public health response.
Scientific Officer
BSMMU
01.2016 - 06.2017
- Assisted 2 MD postgraduate students regularly with biomedical research, supporting all stages from blood sample processing and preservation to genomic DNA preparation from cells and tissues.
- Performed gel electrophoresis, PCR primer design, PCR cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and sequencing, contributing to high-quality, publishable molecular biology research.
- Collaborated with Hepatology and Gastroenterology departments, contributing to interdisciplinary research and co-authoring a peer-reviewed publication.
- Conducted Western blotting, ELISA, enzymatic assays, and both in-vitro and in-vivo protein activity analysis, enhancing research outcomes with accurate and reliable experimental data.
- Provided cross-departmental scientific support as needed, ensuring effective collaboration and timely delivery of findings for diverse research initiatives.
Intern
National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory
04.2013 - 12.2013
- Conducted TB testing via LED microscopy, GenXpert, and Line Probe Assay.
Education
Master of Science - Environmental and Resource Management
Brandenburg Technical University (BTU)
Cottbus, Brandenburg 2024.04 - Current
Master of Science - Microbiology
Stamford University Bangladesh
Dhaka 2014.01 - 2015.12
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
Stamford University Bangladesh
Dhaka 2009.05 - 2014.01
Skills
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
undefinedCertification
WASH in Emergencies (RedR Australia / AusAid)
Publications
Changes of serum interleukin (IL)-6 levels in patient after pancreatoduodenectomy, BSMMU Journal, 2017, Click Here
Timeline
Project Assistant - WASH
International Organization for Migration (IOM- UN Migration)
07.2019 - 12.2023
Microbiologist
BRAC HCMP
12.2017 - 07.2019
Microbiologist
Green Crescent Health Services
07.2017 - 11.2017
Scientific Officer
BSMMU
01.2016 - 06.2017
Intern
National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory
04.2013 - 12.2013
Master of Science - Environmental and Resource Management
Brandenburg Technical University (BTU)
2024.04 - Current
Master of Science - Microbiology
Stamford University Bangladesh
2014.01 - 2015.12
Bachelor of Science - Microbiology
Stamford University Bangladesh
2009.05 - 2014.01
Similar Profiles
YANINA SHEWEENYANINA SHEWEEN
Migration Health Physician at The International Organization for Migration (IOM-UN Migration)Migration Health Physician at The International Organization for Migration (IOM-UN Migration)
Mohamad BaaMohamad Baa
Leading Engineer & Advisor to Water and Habitat program at The International Committee Of The Red Cross (ICRC) - Water And Habitat DepartmentLeading Engineer & Advisor to Water and Habitat program at The International Committee Of The Red Cross (ICRC) - Water And Habitat Department
Eugenia Name'aEugenia Name'a
Human Resources Officer at Australian Doctors InternationalHuman Resources Officer at Australian Doctors International
Preetika LingsurPreetika Lingsur
Academic-operation Associate at I2global Virtual LearningAcademic-operation Associate at I2global Virtual Learning
JASPREET BRARJASPREET BRAR
Research Associate at Corteva AgriscienceResearch Associate at Corteva Agriscience