Doha, February 12 (QNA) - The Qatar Anti-Doping Agency (QADA), in collaboration with Qatar University (QU), announced the launch of the first specialized research grant in the field of anti-doping for the 2026–2027 period, fully funded by the Agency.

This initiative comes as part of the Agency's commitment to advancing specialized scientific research and supporting evidence-based policies and programs, contributing to strengthening the integrity of sport, protecting athletes' health, and developing the anti-doping system at both national and international levels.

The grant aims to support four high-quality research projects, including two scientific studies in relevant scientific, medical, pharmaceutical, and technological fields related to anti-doping, and two social research projects examining the behavioral, cultural, and environmental factors influencing athletes and the sports ecosystem.

The best proposals will be selected according to rigorous competitive criteria to ensure quality outputs and their applicability and suitability for scientific publication.

QU's Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies Prof. Aiman Erbad noted that the research grant represents a strategic investment in multidisciplinary research that connects medical, pharmaceutical, technological, and social sciences, enabling a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of doping issues in the sports context.

He added that cooperation with the QADA reflects an advanced model of partnership between research institutions and specialized national entities, directing research toward real priorities and practical challenges, and enabling researchers and graduate students to produce original knowledge with practical impact and publishable outcomes, supporting the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the sports system.

CEO of QADA Dr. Nasser Al Saad commented: "This research grant represents a pivotal milestone in the Agency's journey to strengthen specialized scientific knowledge, uphold the integrity of sport, and support decisions and policies grounded in scientific research.

We are proud of our partnership with Qatar University as the national university, which enhances the empowerment of national research talent and reinforces Qatar's position as a leading regional and international hub for specialized scientific research in anti-doping."

The grant is open to academic researchers and graduate students at QU, reaffirming the Agency's commitment to innovation, building national research capacity, and ensuring that research outcomes are published according to the highest recognized scientific standards. (QNA)