Maria Bakoutsi

Maria Bakoutsi is a Senior Lab Operations Technician at Galapagos BV in Leiden, the Netherlands, working within the Global Digital Technology and Quality Engineering department. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology and an MSc in Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine. She joined Galapagos in 2023 as an R&D Technician, where her strong scientific background was complemented by a growing passion for management and continuous improvement, leading her to transition into Lab Operations. She brings hands-on experience from fast-paced biopharma environments, supporting GMP laboratory operations and leading cross-functional initiatives in lab optimization, equipment management, change control, and compliance. Maria is passionate about improving operational efficiency, bridging science and project management, and enabling high-performing laboratory environments.