Celebrating International Women’s Day – Sandy Virdi
To mark International Women’s Day on March 8, RAD Magazine asked just a few of the women who are having an impact in the medical imaging industry to give an insight into their working lives and what led them to a career in the imaging sector.
My career to date has been incredibly fulfilling as it has allowed me to combine my deep passion for science with a commitment to improving patient care through innovation. With a foundation in medicinal chemistry and more than 12 years of commercial experience in pharmaceuticals, medical devices and life sciences, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to many groundbreaking advancements in imaging technologies and their application in healthcare.
My journey began at the University of Birmingham where I pursued a BSc in chemistry followed by an interdisciplinary PhD/MSc in the physical sciences of imaging in the biomedical sciences. During this time, I focused my dissertation on the ‘Design and application of MRI contrast agents’ before directing my thesis on ‘Novel lanthanide contrast agents – europium complexes for precision targeting’. Here I explored how tailored contrast agents could enhance image resolution and diagnostic accuracy to offer clinicians powerful tools in the detection and monitoring of diseases.
This research was the culmination of months of rigorous experimentation, starting with the formulation process in chelating my agent before moving onto image acquisition using fluorescence microscopy and luminescence spectroscopy to evaluate contrast performance.
Led by world-renowned researchers I developed my understanding of image analysis, and I trained in MATLAB for signal processing of 3D datasets using various modelling functions such as Fourier transform. I also had the opportunity to work on projects such as 4D imaging of receptor trafficking during chemotaxis and the use of luminescent dyes to track cell motion in blood. These experiences deepened my appreciation of the connection between imaging and bioengineering, fuelling my desire to help shape the future of medical diagnostics.
After completing my studies, I moved into industry roles where I could bring my scientific expertise to real-world applications. At GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) I managed their consumer healthcare portfolio across a wide range of stakeholders, including primary and secondary care providers, private practices and universities to champion GSK’s status as a ‘partner of choice’. I then advanced to roles in medical devices, where I focused on integrating imaging technologies into clinical workflows. At Zimmer Biomet, I introduced innovative tools such as CAD/CAM milling and intraoral scanning to improve diagnostic precision and treatment planning in dental and maxillofacial care. This was followed by Cochlear, where I worked closely with radiologists, oncologists and surgeons to incorporate imaging modalities into treatment protocols and expand access to these technologies for adults and children alike.
These experiences honed my ability to navigate highly regulated environments while ensuring that patient and practitioner needs were always at the forefront.
Today I am proud to contribute to Guerbet’s mission to ‘build lasting relationships so that we enable people to live better’. In my current role, I’m committed to supporting the development and delivery of advanced imaging solutions that empower healthcare professionals and enhance diagnostic accuracy. Exchanging ideas among my peers, customers and industry experts has furthered Guerbet’s ethos on partnerships while also perfectly aligning with my own dedication
to transforming patient care.
As I reflect on my career so far, I’m driven by the incredible potential that diagnostic services play in supporting patient pathways. From my early research on MRI contrast agents to my work at Guerbet, I’ve seen firsthand how innovation can improve outcomes and I’m excited to continue collaborating with healthcare leaders in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in radiology.
The journey has been as challenging as it has been rewarding and I’m grateful for every opportunity that has come my way.
Sandy Virdi, partnerships lead, Guerbet UK.
Read this report on page 12 of the February 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.
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