Michael Armstrong, MD, PhD, has deep experience as both a bench and clinical researcher. His career represents a true intersection of formative influences on his life. His mother was the director of a nursery school, exposing him to a world in which children played a prominent role. In high school, his interest in biology led him to meet a physician-scientist who opened his eyes to the world of medical research. Another mentor was a disciplined scientist who demonstrated compassion and humanity at the bedside.

As a Senior Medical Director, Dr. Armstrong brings his breadth of research acumen to a broad range of oncology indications and treatment modalities when providing medical oversight for clinical trials at IQVIA Biotech. He applies his medical expertise and talent for translating basic science discoveries into clinical practice to clinical research programs.

Prior to joining IQVIA Biotech, Dr. Armstrong spent the last decade building a wealth of valuable experiences as Assistant Professor of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at Duke University, where he served on the university’s Institutional Review Board (IRB). Through his role on the IRB, Dr. Armstrong gained great insight into clinical trial recruitment practices, particularly in recruiting volunteers from underserved and vulnerable populations. Dr. Armstrong believes there are strong parallels between clinical drug development and research in the pediatric oncology setting. The reward of curing a child equals a full life of productivity with tremendous impact on the whole family. Similarly, shepherding a compound through the clinical trial process can result in benefits far beyond those who receive the treatment.

In his research at Duke, Dr. Armstrong excelled in studying interactions of key molecules in the development of neuroblastoma and directing clinical trials in neuroblastoma of children. Dr. Armstrong also brings knowledge gained from his work on the FDA’s Orphan Drug Development Oncology Study Section. Dr. Armstrong applies his leadership and excellence in his field as an active member of the American Society of Hematology, American Association of Cancer Researchers, American Society of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, and the International Society of Pediatric Oncology. He has also participated extensively in cooperative research studies with the Children’s Oncology Group, the world’s largest pediatric cancer research group, and served on a number of the organization’s governance and steering committees.

Board-certified in pediatric hematology/oncology, Dr. Armstrong has been a contributing author to more than 50 articles and abstracts in peer-reviewed journals. He completed his undergraduate education, medical degree, and PhD at the University of Minnesota before moving to the University of Michigan for his pediatrics residency and pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship. Dr. Armstrong has retained his deep ties to the Midwest, home of his extended family and the seat of his education. To illustrate the continuity of care and relationships he has developed, Dr. Armstrong has maintained contact with his very first patient from his oncology training, now a policeman in Michigan.

Having a team with expertise in your therapeutic area is crucial to the success of your clinical development program. Contact us to learn how our dedicated oncology team can support your next study.