admin In an age where technology’s embrace of medicine is reshaping healthcare, the medtech sector stands as the vanguard of this transformation. The convergence of technology and healthcare promises unprecedented advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. At the helm of this groundbreaking change is Abhita Batra, a serial entrepreneur, visionary, and relentless advocate for healthcare innovation. As the Founder & Chief Strategy Officer of neuro42, Abhita is helping to spearhead the evolution of medical imaging, robotics and AI with the first ever portable MRI system, neuro42. Her journey from the corridors of biotechnology to the forefront of medtech is a testament to her unwavering commitment to innovation, fortified by a resolute spirit.
neuro42, Inc. is a MedTech company based in San Francisco that is advancing futuristic technologies for screening, diagnosis, and targeted treatment of neurological conditions. The company is developing a portable MRI device, combining robotic, and AI technologies. Backed by over 40 patents, for point-of-care imaging and interventions under live image guidance, neuro42’s device will be the first of its kind. neuro42 is founded by a team of serial entrepreneurs and innovators with a mission to improve lives through its patient-centric solutions. These innovations aim to help physicians triage patients, perform diagnoses, and conduct interventions for diseases and injuries in a more effective and patient-centered manner.
Helming the Reigns to Change
Abhita Batra’s journey from a Master’s degree in biotechnology to the forefront of one of the most innovative medtech companies, neuro42, is nothing short of inspiring. But that’s only part of her story.
With her diverse educational history, Abhita is able to advocate for many different sectors of the medtech industry. She received a B.E in Biotechnology from Punjab University, a Master’s in Industrial Biotechnology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Global Executive MBA Asia-Pacific from the National University of Singapore and UCLA Anderson School of Management. In 2002, she became the Chief Commercial Officer for Admac Oncology – a dedicated oncology facility. Following this, she became the Founder and Managing Director of Advanced Biopharma Consulting, LLC where she advised multi billion dollar companies on licensing and partnering deals globally. She is also a Director at Admac Group of Companies, managing a global product portfolio encompassing 150 generics..
In addition to these endeavors, Abhita has taken on many more projects; she became Board Member and Chief Executive Officer of Otomagnetics, Inc.. She is also a Co-Founder & Advisor at 8chili Inc. In 2020, she became the Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of neuro42, and a member of the Forbes Business Development Council.
Beyond her business ventures, Abhita dedicates her time to philanthropic efforts and helping train the next generation of entrepreneurs by serving as a Member of the Women’s Philanthropic Group at Mercy Corps and an Advisory Board Member to the Dean (NSM) at the California State University – Sacramento. She is also on the Chandler Unified School District Biotechnology Advisory Committee.
Abhita’s remarkable journey through the intersections of biotechnology, entrepreneurship, and innovation has earned her recognition from Forbes India, The Influential, The Statesman, Americas Women Magazine, and numerous other media outlets.
The Drive Behind Success: Persistence and Grit
Navigating the complex terrain of the medtech industry requires motivation and passion; especially for a woman in the industry. For Abhita Batra, it boils down to two key factors: persistence and grit. These qualities have been her steadfast companions on her entrepreneurial journey.
She saw opportunities for advancements in medical technology that could significantly improve patient care and outcomes. This vision, coupled with an unwavering desire to challenge the status quo, became the driving force behind her decision to embark on the entrepreneurial path. Additionally, Abhita was inspired by the potential to break through gender stereotypes and pave the way for more women to excel in biotechnology and medical devices. Being a successful female entrepreneur has allowed her to serve as a role model and an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the business world. Ultimately, the drive to innovate, create positive change, and empower others served as her driving force to embark on this entrepreneurial journey and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare.
The Pillars of Success: The neuro42 Team
Behind every successful company, is a dedicated and talented team; and Abhita Batra knows the value of her team at neuro42. The company places a strong emphasis on collaboration, transparent communication, accountability, and continuous learning. This collective approach enables them to adapt swiftly, drive innovation, and play a pivotal role in the company’s ongoing success.
Innovation in Action: The Portable MRI Project
Abhita Batra’s career has been marked by projects across the biotech and pharmaceutical industries that fostered her creativity. One project that has pushed innovation and creativity to new levels was the development of the portable head and brain MRI system at neuro42. This ambitious endeavor aimed to overcome the limitations of traditional MRI machines, which are large and stationary, by creating a portable MRI system that could be easily brought to the patient’s bedside.
The project was a true test of innovation and creative problem-solving. It required redefining MRI technology while maintaining image quality, optimizing power usage, and ensuring safety and compatibility. It demanded a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and medical experts to collaborate effectively. Additionally, navigating complex regulatory processes and standards added to the project’s complexity.This project not only pushed the boundaries of medical technology but also underscored the incredible impact that innovation and creativity can have on transforming patient care and medical imaging accessibility.
neuro42’s groundbreaking technology is the first of its kind and is set to play a pivotal role in the future of the medical tech industry. It’s a testament to Abhita’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare.
Becoming a Trailblazer
Entrepreneurship knows no fixed working hours, and Abhita’s workday can vary significantly depending on her ventures’ stage and business demands. On average, she dedicates over 12 hours a day to her work. This includes strategic planning, meetings with her team and partners, overseeing operations, and addressing pressing issues. However, she is mindful of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, acknowledging that it is crucial for long-term sustainability and well-being as an entrepreneur.
Mastering the Art of Balance
Leadership, of any kind can impact family life. Balancing the demands of a leadership role with family responsibilities necessitates thoughtful deliberation and dedicated effort. Abhita acknowledges this challenge and emphasizes the importance of effective time management, delegation, and setting boundaries. She prioritizes her family’s well-being and ensures they receive the attention and support they deserve, even amidst her busy schedule. Maintaining open and honest communication with her family is fundamental to striking this balance. Abhita believes in involving them in her journey and sharing her passionate work ethic with them. According to Abhita, this positively enriches her family life and helps her maintain a healthy equilibrium. Abhita also recognizes that leadership skills, such as decision-making, problem-solving, and adaptability, can be applied to family situations, aiding in finding solutions and maintaining harmony between leadership responsibilities and family life.
Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Success
In male-dominated industries like STEM, gender biases have persisted for decades. Abhita is no stranger to these biases and has always faced them head-on, never allowing them to deter her. She remains persistent and confident in her work, challenging these biases at every step. She believes that being resolute and self-assured in her abilities has been instrumental in overcoming gender biases in her career.
Journeying Back to the Roots for Inspiration
When asked about her greatest inspiration, Abhita Batra looks to her parents. They served as beacons of determination, creating lives together and working to make each other better. Her mother instilled in her the belief that anything is possible and that she didn’t have to make compromises. Abhita’s parents’ values are embedded in her, serving as a constant source of motivation and strength, propelling her to conquer every obstacle and continue on the path to innovation and success.
Formulating Success
While Abhita acknowledges that there is no guaranteed formula for success, she suggests that passion, innovation, a strong team, and unwavering commitment to goals are essential elements to achieve your entrepreneurial dreams. Her journey epitomizes these qualities, illustrating that success often emerges from a blend of vision and dedication.
She also believes that building a robust company culture is paramount to business success. Abhita emphasizes that it begins with clear values and a vision aligned with the company’s mission. Strong leadership sets the tone for the culture, ensuring that all employees are heard and can work effectively as a team. However, the cornerstone of a robust company culture is transparent communication, which fosters trust within the organization.
Insider Views on Navigating the Entrepreneurial Maze
An entrepreneurial trick Abhita has implemented into her day-to-day is simple but effective: the “two-minute rule.” If a task can be completed in two minutes or less, she tackles it immediately. This approach prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming distractions, freeing up mental space for more significant challenges.
Additionally, she adopts a daily routine of setting specific goals and priorities the evening before. This proactive approach ensures that she starts each day with a clear direction and minimizes decision fatigue, enhancing overall productivity.
Goals for Tomorrow
Abhita’s aspirations extend far beyond her current achievements. She envisions a future where healthcare is not just about treating illnesses but also focuses on proactive wellness, early detection, and personalized care. She aims to achieve this by developing cutting-edge medical technologies, promoting proactive health monitoring through wearable devices and health apps, and fostering collaboration within the healthcare community. Her ultimate goal is to make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and patient-centric, enhancing the quality of life for individuals worldwide.
Inspiring Words for Women Entrepreneurs
For aspiring women entrepreneurs, Abhita recommends building a strong support network of fellow women entrepreneurs and mentors who understand the unique challenges and opportunities they may encounter. She also advises investing in self-confidence and assertiveness training to navigate potential gender biases and confidently lead their businesses.
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