Since 2001, WADA has committed more than USD 90 million to helping researchers around the world develop breakthroughs in anti-doping science. The Agency’s scientific research grants are critical because they facilitate research dedicated to developing new and improved detection methods for prohibited performance-enhancing substances and methods as well as attract high level researchers to this cause.
WADA promotes and funds Scientific Research Projects on development or optimization of analytical tools for the detection of doping substances or methods, growth of the Athlete Biological Passport, the pharmacology of prohibited substances and of drug combinations, evaluation of doping potential and anti-doping testing programs. With this objective, WADA gives high priority to projects with direct and imminent applicability (including human studies if applicable) in the fight against doping in sport; and therefore, rarely funds basic research projects. More specifically, applicants are encouraged to propose translational research beyond the discovery stage, and the proposed projects should aim to attain concrete deliverables by the end of the funding period. Applicants are encouraged to consult with anti-doping laboratories (e.g., WADA-accredited laboratories) or antidoping organizations during development of the research plan to help ensure practical applicability of the research.
Deadlines for Expressions of Interest: Sep. 30, 2024; Feb. 28, 2025; July 4, 2025