Dr. Gevorg Tamamyan, a prominent pediatric oncologist and researcher from Armenia, has officially entered the race to become the next Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), backed by a nomination from the Republic of Botswana. The campaign brings a frontline clinical perspective to the global health stage, focusing on health systems strengthening, international health cooperation, and equitable cancer care in resource-limited settings.
### Professional Background and Academic Leadership
Dr. Tamamyan serves as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology at Yerevan State Medical University, alongside his role as CEO of the Immune Oncology Research Institute (IMMONC). He is also Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of OncoDaily, an international oncology media platform designed to expand access to evidence-based cancer information.
His international leadership roles include serving as President of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) Asia Continental Branch and the Pediatric Oncology East and Mediterranean (POEM) Group, which unites 28 countries and 110 cancer centers. He also acts as Co-Chair of the St. Jude EURO Regional Advisory Committee, covering 13 European countries, and chairs the board of the Institute of Cancer and Crisis.
### Institutional Development in Armenia
At age 32, Dr. Tamamyan took over as Head of the Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Armenia. During his tenure, he consolidated previously fragmented national services into a single reference center that raised survival rates up to 80%. He also co-founded City of Smile, a national pediatric cancer charity that secures universal coverage for diagnosis and treatment for children and young adults with cancer in Armenia. Educated across seven countries in Europe, North America, and Asia, his career spans clinical practice, research, academic leadership, and global health diplomacy.
### Global Endorsements and Recognition
The candidacy has drawn notable support from international public health leaders. HRH Princess Dina Mired of Jordan shared a social media endorsement celebrating the nomination, stating that it represents a significant recognition of leadership, experience, and commitment to global health. Princess Dina Mired is a globally recognized advocate in cancer control, a former President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), and former leader of the King Hussein Cancer Foundation.
Dr. Tamamyan’s previous honors include the Fellow of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (FASCO) designation, the ASCO IDEA Award, the UICC and IARC Young Leader Awards, and the Global Health Catalyst Distinguished Leader Award.
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