WADA promotes and funds scientific projects in the anti-doping field.
Focus areas for Cycle #3 in 2026 and Cycle #12027:
- Detection/improvement of detection/quantification of peptide and protein hormones and growth factors, preferably by, but not limited to, chromatography-mass spectrometric methods;
- Improved window (retrospectivity) of detection of prohibited substances/methods that are prohibited at all times (e.g., detection of new long-term metabolites including administration studies, improved methodologies of detection, analyte multiplexing);
- Pharmacokinetic studies to establish thresholds or minimum reporting levels (MRLS) of prohibited substances or their metabolites (e.g., beta-2 agonists, stimulants) to distinguish permitted (e.g., out-of competition or route of administration) from prohibited use, natural sources vs. intended use or presence in food residues (contamination/contaminants);
- Detection of autologous blood transfusion, including validation of candidate biomarkers or molecular/cellular/subcellular signatures;
- Further development of the Athlete Biological Passport (e.g., new biomarkers of doping or confounding factors relevant to the hematological, steroidal or endocrine [markers of growth hormone] modules);
- Advance on dried blood spots (DBS) program, such as the definition of MRLs for substances prohibited in competition only (priority to stimulants/substances of abuse);
- Detection of gene and cell doping (details provided at the E category, below)
- Synthesis of selected Certified Reference Materials;
- Studies on weight management drugs, contamination substances or cannabis (Marijuana).
Funding: No fixed limit (2024 average was $88, 000, median $95,000)
Duration: 1-3 years
Cycle #3 2026
Research Authority due date: 4.6.26
Expression of interest (EOI) (required) due date: 12.6.26
Full proposal due dates: 3.9.26
Cycle #1 2027
Research Authority due date: 17.9.26
Expression of interest (EOI) (required) due date: 25.9.26
Full proposal due dates: 11.12.26
