Maria Baker

Maria Baker, PhD, MS, LGC is a Professor in the Department of Medicine's Division of Hematology and Oncology at Penn State Cancer Institute, College of Medicine, Penn State University. She developed the Penn State Health Cancer Genetics Program in 1998 and more recently established the Pediatric Cancer Genetics Program in 2016 with support from the Four Diamonds fund.

Dr. Baker earned her PhD from Penn State College of Medicine in 1991 and her MS from University of Pittsburgh in 1985. She is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (FACMG).

Dr. Baker's research focuses on hereditary cancer syndromes affecting both adult and pediatric populations, with particular emphasis on genetic counseling, testing methodologies, and the ethical, legal, and social implications of cancer predisposition testing. Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. She provides genetic counseling services and risk management strategies including enhanced surveillance, lifestyle changes, chemoprevention, and prophylactic surgery options.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on improving genetic testing accuracy, understanding patient experiences with genetic screening, and addressing professional challenges in genetic counseling. Her work bridges clinical practice with policy development, particularly in cancer genetics.

• Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching (2015)
• Medical Group Dean's List: Extraordinary Patient Satisfaction (2016, 2017, 2018)
• Honorary award for 99th percentile satisfaction ratings (2018)

Dr. Baker has been instrumental in policy development, helping facilitate the passage of genetic counselor licensure in Pennsylvania in 2011 and working at the federal level to secure recognition of genetic counselors by CMS as healthcare providers. She served as Chair of the Penn State Hershey Commission for Women (2013) representing over 7,000 women, and co-chaired the American Association of Medical Colleges Group on Women in Medicine and Science (2016-2018).

Her research activities are centered around the Cancer Genetics Program she developed, which serves as a comprehensive resource for individuals concerned about personal or family cancer history.