Work with Megha Sachdev

How long have you been with BIOTRONIK, and what is your role?

I’ve been with BIOTRONIK since July 2024 and work as a technical staff member in Research & Development in the System Validation department for Home Monitoring software. In my role, I support the validation of software-controlled medical devices—from the initial concept through to market launch and beyond.

My focus is on automated and manual software testing to ensure that our software works seamlessly with the implants. I also support the development of automated testing solutions, risk management, and cybersecurity for our medical devices. In addition, I participate in clinical application testing within the BIOTRONIK Home Monitoring System.

Going forward, I will be more heavily involved in a project to migrate systems and processes to a cloud environment. This is an important step toward further improving efficiency, data availability, and collaboration among global teams.

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you came to join BIOTRONIK?

I’m originally from India and moved to Berlin about three years ago for an internship. Before that, I completed my bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering in India.

I then earned my master's degree in smart systems in Germany. At first, I considered studying medicine, but then I made a conscious decision to pursue a degree in engineering. I wanted to understand the entire system behind medical devices—that is, how they are developed, manufactured, and used to help patients.

During an internship at S. L. Raheja Hospital in Mumbai in 2019, I had my first direct exposure to medical technology in a clinical setting. There, I also met patients with implants and spoke with doctors about how they work. This experience strengthened my interest in medtech.

While researching leading medical technology companies in Europe, BIOTRONIK particularly caught my attention, especially because of its innovative implant technologies and strong focus on patient safety. When I later saw a suitable position that was a good fit for me, I applied.

What convinced you to join BIOTRONIK?

The decisive factor for me was the clear focus on patient safety and well-being. I wanted to be part of a company where my daily work has a tangible impact on people's lives.

Here, every project and every test helps to further improve the safety and reliability of our products. That gives me a strong sense of purpose in my work.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

A typical day involves conducting manual and automated tests of our medical software. I analyze the results and prepare detailed reports that are important for regulatory approval processes, among other things.

In addition, I work closely with various departments to review test results and discuss potential improvements. In validation, we are the final step before a product reaches patients. That’s why it’s important not only to think technically but also to consider the perspectives of doctors and patients.

Here is a concrete example: I suggested restructuring the labels and adjusting the layout to make the user interface more intuitive and better aligned with clinical usability requirements. I really appreciate the open and constructive dialogue about suggestions for improvement, because it allows me to contribute my own perspective to the team.

What makes your work at BIOTRONIK special to you?

I find working at the intersection of technology and healthcare particularly exciting. Every test we conduct ultimately contributes to patient safety.

At the same time, that is precisely the challenge: analyzing how software interacts with implants under real-world conditions. Even small details can have a major impact on usability and safety. I enjoy this kind of “detective work”—finding causes, understanding problems, and developing solutions together as a team.

Even though I don’t have direct contact with patients, I know that our work supports physicians in making the right decisions and helps patients worldwide.

Knowing this motivates me every day.

What surprises new colleagues most about your job?

Many are surprised by just how versatile software validation actually is. Colleagues with a purely IT background, in particular, often have a different view of testing or validation work.

But it’s about much more than just working through checklists. Creativity, analytical thinking, and the ability to anticipate user behavior play a major role. Sometimes the job really feels like detective work, because even the smallest mistakes can have major consequences in medical technology.

What opportunities for professional growth have you had so far?

There are many opportunities for professional development. Internal sessions are held regularly, during which colleagues share their knowledge about new technologies or industry trends. In addition, my team leader regularly organizes open-space discussions with colleagues from the U.S., which I find very enriching.

There are also seminars and training sessions designed to strengthen both professional and personal skills. I recently attended a training session on AccessMRI, which I found particularly interesting. Continuous learning is truly encouraged here.

What do you appreciate most about your team and the company culture?

Above all, I appreciate the multicultural and inclusive environment at BIOTRONIK. As someone from India, I felt very welcome right from the start.

My team is very supportive and patient—especially during the early days. In meetings, I usually speak German, but I switch to English when necessary, which works out just fine. My colleagues really encourage me to keep improving my German.

Overall, I experience a very open, helpful, and respectful work environment.

Is there anything that particularly inspires you, either at work or in your personal life?

At work, I really enjoy learning from others and try to stay curious. I often draw inspiration from the people and companies I follow on LinkedIn. There, I discover new ideas, industry updates, and best practices, some of which I can apply to my own work.

Outside of work, I love to travel and enjoy quiet weekends on my own. Discovering new places helps me recharge my batteries and broaden my horizons. At the same time, these quieter moments give me the opportunity to consciously slow down and reflect. This balance between curiosity and tranquility keeps me motivated and grounded.

What advice would you give to applicants who want to start at BIOTRONIK?

Be open-minded, curious, and willing to learn. Every experience here brings new insights, and curiosity goes a long way toward personal and professional growth.

Don't be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas. BIOTRONIK offers an environment where new perspectives are welcome. Those who take the initiative will find many opportunities for growth.