Ernestine Marie Vellozzi

Ernestine Marie Vellozzi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the School of Health Professions and Nursing, Long Island University (LIU). She has over 30 years of experience in clinical microbiology, teaching, research, and laboratory management. Dr. Vellozzi teaches a wide range of courses including Immunology, Medical Microbiology, Clinical Bacteriology, and Medical Virology across bachelor’s and master’s programs in Biomedical Sciences, Forensic Science, and Clinical Laboratory Science.

Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Microbiology, B.S. and M.S. in Biology, and an M.S. in Pharmacology, all from St. John’s University. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Medical Microbiology and holds a Certificate of Qualification as a Laboratory Director from the New York State Department of Health.

Dr. Vellozzi's research focuses on antibiotic resistance mechanisms, rapid microbial identification, and epidemiologic surveillance of nosocomial infections. Her work has contributed to improved diagnostics and treatment for bacterial and parasitic eye infections. She is currently involved in a Department of Defense-funded project on syndromic surveillance systems for infectious diseases in collaboration with North Shore-LIJ Health System Laboratories.

The recent publications highlight a strong focus on clinical microbiology, particularly ocular infections, antibiotic resistance in pathogens like MRSA and Acinetobacter, biofilm research, and infection control in healthcare settings. Her work spans virology, bacteriology, mycology, and public health, with consistent contributions to journals such as the Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology.

Scientific awards received include:

• Past Presidents Award, New York City Branch of the American Society for Microbiology
• Outstanding Educator Award, New York College of Osteopathic Medicine

Dr. Vellozzi has advised and taught students across multiple institutions, including medical, graduate, and undergraduate levels. She has held teaching positions at Baruch College, St. John’s University, Queensborough Community College, and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Her professional service includes serving as a council member and former president of the New York City Branch of the American Society for Microbiology, reviewer for the Journal of Clinical Microbiology, and clinical microbiology consultant. She has also contributed to major reference works as co-editor of the 'Instrument Maintenance and Quality Control' chapter in the Clinical Microbiology Procedures Handbook.

She remains actively affiliated with the North Shore-LIJ Health System Laboratories as a Clinical Microbiology Research Collaborator and continues to contribute to education, research, and public health through her academic and clinical roles.