Stijn Denissen

Stijn Denissen is a Researcher in Neurology within the Clinical Sciences department at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZB). He is currently completing his PhD in neurosciences with a focus on artificial intelligence applications for Multiple Sclerosis research.

His research interests center on decoding brain function through the marriage of AI and medical sciences, specifically developing predictive models using MRI and clinical parameters for disease progression in Multiple Sclerosis. His work spans smartphone-based cognitive screening, brain age prediction as a biomarker, virtual reality rehabilitation, and manual dexterity assessment for MS patients. The research integrates advanced AI techniques with clinical neurology to create what he describes as 'a guiding compass for the future' of MS treatment.

Analysis of his recent publications shows a strong trend toward developing practical AI tools that can be implemented in clinical settings, with increasing focus on smartphone-based assessment methods and biomarker development. His work bridges the gap between complex AI modeling and practical clinical applications for neurological disorders.

Scientific Awards:

• Baekeland Grant (2019)

Denissen actively supervises Master's students working on AI applications in neurology and has secured significant research funding through competitive grants. He is currently leading the FWOTM1215 project on explainable AI for cognitive functioning in MS (2024-2027) and previously completed the Baekeland mandate project on creating an MS progression prediction tool (2020-2024).

He regularly presents his research at international conferences and workshops, with recent presentations focusing on smartphone applications for clinical practice, brain age as a marker for information processing speed in MS, and data exploration techniques for neurological research.