Maria Makridaki

Business Development and Innovation, Center of eHealth Applications and Services (CeHA), Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH)

Dr. Maria Makridaki is Business Development and Innovation Manager at the Center of eHealth Applications and Services (CeHA) of the Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH). With a PhD in Optical Neuroscience from the University of Manchester, she brings a combination of scientific depth and strategic innovation leadership to the field of digital health. She specializes in transforming cutting-edge research into impactful, market-ready solutions, fostering collaborations between academia, healthcare providers, industry, and public authorities. Maria is active in shaping digital health ecosystems at both national and European levels, supporting SMEs, startups, and research teams in technology transfer, funding acquisition, and sustainable growth. Actively engaged in major European initiatives and digital innovation hubs, she advocates for responsible AI adoption, data-driven healthcare systems, and inclusive innovation models that strengthen resilience and patient-centered care. Through her work, she contributes to bridging the gap between research excellence and real-world societal impact.