WADA and the Université de Sherbrooke launch a research chair on anti-doping in sport

The Chair and related graduate program in the field of humanities—which were developed in partnership by the two organizations, but which will be independently led by the University—aim to develop globally-recognized expertise in the field of anti-doping through an approach focused on advancing research and knowledge transfer.

In May 2019, WADA announced that its Foundation Board approved creation of the Chair; and that, as part of this partnership, the Agency committed to an investment of USD 200,000 per year for five years that the University would match. In order to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Chair, the University will work to raise additional funds from the public and private sectors.

WADA Director General, Olivier Niggli, said: “Research and Education have long been strategic priorities for WADA. We believe that this partnership with the Université de Sherbrooke’s Research Chair on Anti-Doping in Sport will provide a big boost towards WADA’s mission to lead a collaborative worldwide movement for doping-free sport. Over the years, WADA has invested millions in social science research that specifically measures the effectiveness of existing anti-doping strategies and interventions; and, informs more effective doping prevention strategies. In parallel, WADA is increasing access to education and information programs worldwide with the goal of preventing intentional or unintentional use of prohibited substances and methods.

Professor François Coderre, Dean of the School of Management, Université de Sherbrooke, Vincent Joli-Coeur, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Foundation, Université de Sherbrooke, Professor David Pavot, Holder of the Research Chair on Anti-Doping in Sport, Professor Jean-Pierre Perreault, Vice-President, Research and Graduate Studies, Université de Sherbrooke and Olivier Niggli, WADA Director General.

“WADA is very proud of this partnership that strengthens the Agency’s presence in our host community since 2002; and, reiterates our commitment to Quebec’s research and academic communities. The Université de Sherbrooke is renowned in Canada and internationally for its capacity to create applied research programs and chairs with a variety of partners. We are confident that it is well positioned to bring unique expertise and a perspective to the anti-doping community that is supported by research; and, in so doing, contribute to making Montreal a global center of excellence for anti-doping.ˮ

The Chair will provide applied research to the anti-doping community. It will bring an interdisciplinary focus in anti-doping; particularly, in the field of humanities—most notably in management, law, education and sociology. In addition to the Chair, the graduate program—via a master’s degree on anti-doping in sports — will attract students and train anti-doping professionals from around the world, increasing the capacity of the anti-doping system. The launch date of these programs will be communicated by the University in due course

Professor David Pavot, holder of the Research Chair on Anti-Doping in Sport, said: “WADA’s environment is made up of international organizations as well as national anti-doping agencies and sports federations. The fight against doping has an impressive number of levels. This association with WADA opens the door to a universe of remarkable depth.”

Stéphane Paquet, CEO of Montréal International, said: “We are truly proud to have helped the World Anti-Doping Agency in creating this new research chair with the Université de Sherbrooke. The presence of a flagship organization like WADA helps to strengthen the leadership of Greater Montréal in the fight against doping, in addition to increasing the international prestige of our region.”

About WADA

Formed in 1999, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is an international independent agency composed and funded equally by the Sports Movement and Governments of the world. As the global regulatory body, WADA’s primary role is to develop, harmonize and coordinate anti-doping rules and policies across all sports and countries. Its key activities include: ensuring and monitoring effective implementation of the World Anti-Doping Code and its related International Standards; scientific and social science research; education; intelligence and investigations; and, building anti-doping capacity with anti-doping organizations worldwide. WADA is headquartered in Montreal, Canada and has offices in Cape Town, Lausanne, Montevideo, Tokyo and Warsaw.

About the Université de Sherbrooke

The Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) is one of Quebec’s three major research hubs. Recognized for its innovation, UdeS is a leading partner of upper-level and regional governments to promote social, cultural and economic development. It also stands out through strong growth in its research activities in recent years, its success in technology transfer, as well as its initiatives in entrepreneurship and open innovation in collaboration with industry and the social sector.