Karen Pittois

Karen Pittois is a Lecturer and researcher at AP University College since 2006, specializing in Biomedical Laboratory Technology and Chemistry programs. She teaches biochemistry, molecular genetics, gene technology, immunology, immunopathology, and supervises biochemical lab practicums for third-year students. She holds a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Antwerp (1999) and previously worked as a Senior Scientist at Galápagos (2006–2013).

Education:

• PhD in Biochemistry, University of Antwerp (1999)

Research Focus: Development of diagnostic tools and molecular techniques, including digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) for chronic eosinophilic leukemia, multiplex PCR for gene fusion detection, and 3D cell culture systems for drug testing (e.g., TOAST project). Her expertise spans ELISA, real-time PCR, molecular biology, and biochemical techniques.

Key Projects:

• ddPCR (2019–2020): Novel diagnostic test for chronic eosinophilic leukemia.
• Multiplex (2021–2023): Detection of FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion gene in hypereosinophilia.
• Breakpoints (2020–2021): Analysis of fusion gene breakpoints.
• TOAST (2016–2018): 3D cell culture system for drug efficacy testing.
• CIP (2013–2017): Cell growth in porous hydrogels.

Advising & Labs: Supervises biochemical laboratory practicums and coordinates research projects. Active in lab development for biomedical applications.