YEREVAN, Armenia — When Mikhail Melikov (MPH/MBA ’14) first enrolled at the American University of Armenia (AUA), his desire was to explore new opportunities and search for a direction that aligned with his interests and ambitions. With a degree from the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport, Mikhail joined AUA’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program in 2007 and later returned to earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree as well. Together, the two degrees provided a unique combination of analytical, managerial, and public health expertise that would shape his future career.
Building a Career Foundation at AUA
Among his most memorable experiences at AUA were the long hours spent studying alongside classmates. “There were numerous memorable moments, but the most fascinating were the overnight study sessions,” Mikhail recalls. “I was eager to learn, and those experiences helped me tremendously.”
While every professor contributed to his academic journey, two courses in particular — biostatistics and epidemiology — would ultimately define his professional path. “I had never taken courses like that before, so they were very challenging at first,” he says. “But with the support of my professors and classmates, I succeeded.” Mikhail especially credits Professor Rob Scharff, who taught biostatistics, and Professor Byron Crape, whose epidemiology course left a lasting impression. “Their encouragement inspired me to pursue this field as a career,” he remarks.
Looking back, he believes one of the most valuable lessons AUA taught him was not a specific technical skill, but rather the ability to continuously learn. “This may sound cliché, but AUA taught me how to learn. That is one of the greatest takeaways from my education,” he says.
Professional Journey in Public Health After Graduation
Following graduation, Mikhail joined the USAID Primary Healthcare Reform Project, where he worked on implementing healthcare software systems across Armenia. The role required extensive travel to clinics throughout the country’s regions, helping healthcare providers adopt new technologies and improve data management practices.
He later joined Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières), supporting efforts to combat drug-resistant tuberculosis in Armenia. As a data analyst, he prepared reports and analyses that informed decision-making by healthcare stakeholders.
Although his career remained rooted in healthcare, Mikhail gradually transitioned into the field of clinical research. He spent five years with ClinChoice Armenia, one of the pioneering companies that helped establish Armenia’s clinical research industry, applying the knowledge and analytical skills he had developed at AUA.
Experience Abroad: Challenges and Outcomes
In 2017, a new opportunity took Mikhail abroad. He relocated to France to join a biotechnology company, where he spent several years gaining experience in an international environment. “It was a completely different experience — the language, the lifestyle, and the work culture,” he says. “The company was relatively small and under-resourced, so each of us had to perform multiple functions. Those years were challenging, but they taught me how every part of an organization works.”
The experience also strengthened skills that continue to serve him today. “I learned how to communicate effectively, manage critical situations, and earn clients’ trust. Even though I work in a highly technical field, communication and professionalism are essential.”
Return to Homeland
Despite building a successful career abroad, personal and family considerations eventually urged him to return to Armenia. Equally important was his desire to contribute to the development of a field that remains relatively new in the country. “I believed I could share my experience and knowledge with colleagues here. It feels rewarding to know that I was able to help create opportunities for a small group of statisticians and contribute to the growth of biostatistics as a profession in Armenia,” he says.
Today, Mikhail works as a consultant in biostatistics for companies involved in clinical research and the pharmaceutical industry. Beyond his professional work, he is deeply committed to training and mentoring young specialists entering the field. In collaboration with colleagues and international partners, he has helped create training opportunities for aspiring biostatisticians and statistical programmers, giving them practical pathways into a rapidly growing industry.
Developing Clinical Research and Biostatistics in Armenia
Mikhail notes that Armenia’s clinical research sector has expanded significantly in recent years, particularly since 2019, as international companies began hiring local talent with backgrounds in computer science, mathematics, and biostatistics. One of his greatest passions is helping young professionals recognize how their technical skills can contribute to improving health outcomes.
As emerging technologies and artificial intelligence reshape career interests, Mikhail believes it is increasingly important to demonstrate the real-world value of clinical research. “Many young professionals are attracted to industries that seem more trendy. We want them to see that mathematics and analytical skills can be applied to biostatistics and ultimately contribute to better healthcare for patients,” Mikhail explains. “We want them to see that their work in clinical research can have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.”
AUA Shaping His Professional Path
During his time at AUA, Mikhail was also supported by the Zaven O. Kodjayan Scholarship, an experience he remembers with deep appreciation. “Receiving the scholarship was both a great honor and meaningful support during my time at AUA. It eased the financial burden of my studies and allowed me to focus on my academic and professional growth. Looking back, it played an important role in helping me pursue opportunities that have shaped my career, and I remain grateful for the confidence and support it provided,” he reflects.
Reflecting on his journey, he sees AUA’s MPH program as the foundation upon which he built his career. “The MPH program was the cornerstone for me,” he says. “It opened doors, allowed me to pursue what I am passionate about, and gave me the foundation to continue growing professionally.”
Today, as Mikhail continues mentoring young professionals and helping expand Armenia’s clinical research ecosystem, he remains committed to creating opportunities for the next generation just as AUA helped create opportunities for him.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.