SCRI Announces the Appointments of Leaders David Spigel, MD, Melissa Johnson, MD, and Erika Hamilton, MD, in New & Expanded Roles

October 6, 2025

SCRI Celebrates the Career of President Howard “Skip” Burris, Retiring After Nearly 30 Years with the Organization

Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials, proudly announced several key updates to its Executive Leadership team, underscoring the organization’s ongoing commitment to advancing cancer care through innovative research and strategic leadership.

These leadership changes come as SCRI honors the retirement of its esteemed President and Chief Medical Officer, Howard “Skip” Burris, III, MD, after nearly three decades of visionary leadership. Dr. Burris’ legacy has shaped the foundation of SCRI’s mission and continues to influence the future of cancer research and care.

David Spigel, MD, formerly Chief Scientific Officer for SCRI, has been appointed President and Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Spigel brings deep experience and a strong alignment with the organization’s mission and values. Since joining SCRI in 2003, Dr. Spigel has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s clinical research program, overseeing all aspects of SCRI’s trials and ensuring that the most promising new therapies are available to patients through strong collaboration with its physician leaders. As President and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Spigel will lead SCRI into its next chapter while continuing to foster scientific excellence and strategic partnerships.

“It is a privilege to serve in these roles during such a transformative time for SCRI,” said Dr. Spigel. “Dr. Burris has been an extraordinary mentor to me and so many others—his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to patients have shaped the culture and success of this organization. I look forward to building on his legacy as we continue to reach more patients and redefine how clinical trials are delivered.”

Additionally, Melissa Johnson, MD, and Erika Hamilton, MD, have been appointed to expanded leadership roles at the organization as Chief Scientific Officer and Chief Development Officer, Late Phase, respectively.

In addition to leading SCRI's Lung Cancer Research, Dr. Johnson will now serve as Chief Scientific Officer, guiding the strategic direction of SCRI’s research programs across its network of sites. In her new role, Dr. Johnson will lead SCRI’s scientific innovation strategy, overseeing the development of site-specific research menus and ensuring studies are both scientifically rigorous and diverse. She will guide research teams and foster a culture of innovation that aligns with SCRI’s mission to advance cancer care through cutting-edge clinical research.

Dr. Hamilton will now lead as Chief Development Officer, Late Phase, in addition to overseeing SCRI's Breast Cancer Research, advancing SCRI’s efforts to bring promising therapies closer to patients. In this role, Dr. Hamilton will serve as SCRI’s principal representative for late-phase oncology research, and will also drive engagement with industry partners to further SCRI’s Accelero strategy, strengthening collaborations that accelerate innovation and patient access. She will lead cross-functional teams to drive innovative trial designs and seamlessly integrate Personalized Medicine into clinical research.

Vivek Subbiah, MD, will continue in his role as Chief of Early Phase Drug Development, leading early phase capabilities and programs across SCRI’s network.

With these leadership transitions, SCRI honors the extraordinary career of Dr. Burris, whose retirement marks nearly three decades of transformational leadership and lasting impact.

“Throughout his remarkable career, Dr. Burris has embodied the true spirit of servant leadership—guiding with humility, inspiring with integrity, and always placing patients at the heart of every decision,” said Dee Anna Smith, Chief Executive Officer for SCRI. “His unwavering commitment to mentoring colleagues, advancing clinical research in community settings, and advocating for people facing cancer has left an indelible mark on our field. I consider it a profound privilege to have worked alongside him, and on behalf of myself, the entire SCRI network, and the countless lives he has touched, I extend our deepest gratitude for his visionary leadership, his tireless dedication, and his lifelong pursuit of hope and healing. Dr. Burris’ legacy is not only written in the progress we’ve made—but in the lives that will continue to be transformed because of him.”

Dr. Burris began his journey at the United States Military Academy at West Point and earned his medical degree from the University of South Alabama. He completed his residency and fellowship in hematology/oncology at Brooke Army Medical Center, where he also served as Director of Clinical Research and Associate Professor at The University of Texas Health Science Center.

In 1997, Dr. Burris founded the first community-based Phase I drug development program, which evolved into SCRI. Under his leadership, SCRI has conducted more than 850 first-in-human trials – many of which led to FDA-approved therapies that have transformed cancer care.

A leader in the field, Dr. Burris has authored hundreds of publications and abstracts and played a key role in the development of novel therapies. His influence extends far beyond SCRI – he served as President of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) from 2019 to 2020 and continues to serve in leadership roles, including Chair of the Board for the Conquer Cancer Foundation.

Upon his retirement, Dr. Burris will continue in an advisory capacity for SCRI and guide key initiatives related to Accelero with the organization’s biopharma partners. Drs. Spigel, Johnson, and Hamilton will assume their expanded leadership roles in January 2026.