Maria Bakkus

Maria Bakkus is a dedicated researcher specializing in molecular diagnostics within Hemato-Oncology at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy. She serves as a Researcher at the Translational Oncology Research Center UZB and coordinates the reference laboratory for molecular Ig/TCR MRD testing in acute lymphoblastic leukemia and multiple myeloma.

Her research focuses on developing and validating molecular techniques for minimal residual disease detection, with particular expertise in next-generation sequencing approaches and liquid biopsy applications. Dr. Bakkus has established herself as a key contributor to precision diagnostics in hematological malignancies through her extensive research output spanning over three decades.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trend toward non-invasive biomarker development, particularly using blood-derived cell-free DNA for monitoring multiple myeloma. Her work bridges the gap between molecular biology and clinical application, with emphasis on translating laboratory findings into practical diagnostic tools for patient management.

• 3381 total citations
• h-index of 25
• 75 research outputs from 1992 to present
• Active involvement in current research projects through 2027

Dr. Bakkus maintains an active research program with consistent output, demonstrated by publications in 2024-2025. She collaborates extensively with colleagues including Ivan Van Riet and Wouter De Brouwer on translational research projects focused on hematological malignancies. Her work in the Euroclonality Consortium contributes to international standardization of molecular diagnostic approaches in hemato-oncology.

As the Reference lab coordinator for molecular Ig/TCR MRD testing, Dr. Bakkus leads a specialized laboratory that provides critical diagnostic services for patient management in acute lymphoblastic leukemia and multiple myeloma. Her team focuses on implementing and validating the latest molecular techniques to improve sensitivity and accuracy of minimal residual disease detection.