Media Resources & Contact
Dr Ramachandran has been working at NSW Health Pathology for over a decade. But alongside her passion for improving public health, she also has a love of dancing; Bollywood style!
Vidiya joined NSW Health Pathology (NSWHP) for a year in 2005 to set up the TGA-licensed Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) laboratory at the Serology and Virology Division (SAViD) located at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick.
Her move from academic research to diagnostic pathology required not only a shift in mindset but also an expansion of her knowledge base and technical skills.
In research, the focus is often on hypothesis driven inquiries, exploring the unknown and pushing the boundaries in science. In contrast, diagnostic pathology demands a precision oriented approach, where the objective is to deliver accurate, timely results that directly affect patient care decisions.
She returned to NSWHP in 2012 and eventually became the Senior Hospital Scientist in charge of the NAT laboratory, which won the 2023 NSW Premier’s Award for Highest Quality Healthcare.
In 2021, Vidiya transitioned to her current role as the Clinical Trial Coordinator for the Illawarra Shoalhaven region based at Wollongong Hospital.
“As a clinical trial coordinator, I love the direct impact my work has on public health,” she says.
“Collaborating with diverse teams of professionals allows me to contribute my knowledge while gaining insights from others in different fields. The field of pathology thrives on collaboration, drawing on the diverse expertise of pathologists, technicians, clinicians and researchers.
“Moreover, I find personal fulfillment in contributing to scientific knowledge, knowing that my efforts are improving patient outcomes and making a positive difference in public health.”
But when the lab coat comes off, Vidiya says she gets her dancing shoes on!
“When I am not busy coordinating clinical trials for NSW Health Pathology, I transform into a dancing maestro, channeling the vibrant rhythms of Indian classical dance and the energy of Bollywood,” she says.
“I am all about expressing myself through the power of dance and it is my ultimate happy place.
“I started learning Bharatanatyam, an Indian classical dance, at a young age age and kept at it all through high school.
“I am grateful that I can still pursue this passion today. I also teach dance, and I love being able to share this part of my culture and my love for dance with my students.
“Dancing is an excellent stress reliever and a superb way to enhance fitness,” she said.
She loves travelling, especially back home to Sri Lanka to spend time with her parents and enjoy her mum’s home-cooked meals.
Vidiya’s advice for budding young scientists is simple.
“Put yourself out there for opportunities and embrace opportunities. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and follow your passion.”