Thanasis Poullikkas is a Postdoctoral Researcher within the cBITE Department. Originating from Cyprus, he holds a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Science from Lancaster University (U.K.) and a PhD in Human Biology from Tsukuba University (Japan). His doctoral research delved into elucidating the crosstalk mechanisms between the glycoprotein NMB and the non-canonical WNT pathway, specifically within cancer stem cells of Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

Presently, under the mentorship of Dr. Vanessa LaPointe and Dr. MD Mor Dickman, his focus lies in meticulously refining the differentiation process of pluripotent stem cells into corneal endothelium. This challenging aim, conducted in collaboration between the MERLN Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology at the MUMC+, seeks to address the global shortage of corneal donors, with the ultimate goal of translating research advancements into impactful solutions for patients in need.