Sonja is a Project Manager at HSE. In her interview, she talks about how she brings different disciplines together to drive innovation – and why she had an eye on the Nobel Prize.
What do you do at HSE?
Sonja: I’m a Project Manager and I joined HSE in March 2025.
My work involves coordinating project development across a variety of disciplines, which means I function as an interface both internally and for our customers. As a Project Manager, it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of the overall project aim, the different timelines and milestones, and the work required to achieve these.
I work on a diverse range of projects, which makes the work engaging and rewarding. One project I’m working on is to overcome the challenges associated with sorting small biological entities. Automating the sorting process eliminates tedious manual steps, enabling faster, more efficient, and more precise analysis of biological samples.
I’m also working on a project to reduce costs for a PCR-based point-of-care reader. The trend towards point-of-care systems is driven by the increasing demand for timely and accurate insights which can be critical in acute conditions.
What’s your professional background?
Sonja: I studied medical physics at Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf (Germany) where I earned both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees. Afterward, I completed a PhD in electronic engineering at the Fraunhofer Institute in Duisburg, where I developed a nanosensor for the electrical characterization of cells.
After my PhD, I started as a System Engineer at DIALUNOX – a QIAGEN company – initially working on lateral flow readers. I then became a Project Manager not only for lateral flow but also for PCR point-of-care readers.
Are specific skills important for your work here?
Sonja: Yes, understanding the multifaceted nature of interdisciplinary collaboration is essential. Internally, this means having relevant expertise in various disciplines such as electronics, system engineering, mechanics, and software. But, at the same time, you have to quickly understand the customer’s needs and have excellent application knowledge.
Understanding diverse needs and perspectives isn’t just important for the success of a project, it also helps build a stronger sense of shared purpose.
What do you value most in a team?
Sonja: Although I’ve only been here for a relatively short time, it’s obvious the whole team really understands the project’s goals – everyone is proactive and motivated to do their best every day. People frequently go above and beyond, often stepping up to take on extra responsibilities.
I also really value the strong team spirit, as well as the openness and honesty.
Can you tell us about a project or achievement at HSE you’re especially proud of?
Sonja: One of the projects I’m working on successfully passed the first checkpoint. We achieved really nice results at the end of the concept phase. The concept didn’t just look good on paper, it also worked very well in the lab, which meant we built breadboards in the early phase to ramp up quickly. It was a highlight for me personally and for the entire team. The team did an excellent job.
What opportunities for learning and developing are you currently pursuing to enhance your skills?
Sonja: As I only started in March 2025, my daily work provides me with a lot of opportunities to learn. I familiarize myself with customers’ ideas and solutions. I read publications and we can also attend conferences to ensure we stay up to date.
What do you like about HSE?
Sonja: I really like the positive work atmosphere here. Also, the fact that everyone is intrinsically motivated and works so proactively. I’m really impressed by the high level of expertise at HSE and particularly how this is applied. It’s great that the roles of colleagues are clearly defined, allowing everyone's strengths to be utilized effectively.
I appreciate the teamwork and how it makes the work enjoyable and rewarding.
What do most people not know about you?
Sonja: When I was a student, I used to attend the Lindau Nobel Laureate meetings, which provided an interesting exchange between Nobel Laureates and young researchers.
Once, the physicist, Klaus von Klitzing, presented his previous and current work to us. He then picked up his Nobel Prize and asked, “Who wants a Nobel Prize?” So, I grabbed the chance and said, “Me! I do.” And this is how I got to hold a Nobel Prize.
An interdisciplinary team for exciting innovations
Sonja is part of a team of highly qualified professionals, each bringing specialized expertise and a shared commitment to engineering excellence.
You can be confident you’re working with some of the best-trained engineers in the industry.
