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Senior Manager, Research
Group: Science and Medicine
Reports to: Head of Research
Location: WADA Headquarters, Montreal, Canada
Posting deadline:14 October 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are looking for a Senior Manager, Research to play a key leadership role in shaping and delivering WADA's scientific research agenda. Reporting to the Head of Research, you will lead a portfolio of high-impact research initiatives, from identifying emerging scientific opportunities through translating validated research outcomes into practical anti-doping solutions. You will work with WADA-accredited laboratories, researchers, academic institutions, international organizations, and colleagues across WADA to ensure our research investments deliver meaningful impact for the global anti-doping system.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Lead the development and implementation of scientific research initiatives aligned with WADA's strategic and scientific priorities;
- Manage a portfolio of complex research projects, including planning, resource coordination, risk management, milestone monitoring, and performance assessment;
- Identify emerging scientific opportunities, research needs, and technological developments to help shape future research priorities and funding initiatives;
- Oversee the research project lifecycle, from proposal evaluation and peer review through to supporting the implementation of validated research outcomes;
- Build strong relationships with researchers, WADA-accredited laboratories, international organizations, funding agencies, and other scientific stakeholders;
- Collaborate across WADA to bring scientific expertise to cross-functional initiatives involving areas such as Science & Medicine, Legal Affairs, IT, Digital Insights, Compliance, Rules and Standards, Communications, and Finance;
- Help translate research findings into practical applications, including their implementation by WADA-accredited laboratories and integration into programs such as the Athlete Biological Passport and the Prohibited List;
- Lead scientific discussions and multidisciplinary collaboration while identifying and managing project risks;
- Coordinate rigorous, transparent, and evidence-based scientific evaluation and peer review of research funding applications;
- Develop and monitor performance indicators to assess the effectiveness and impact of WADA's research investments;
- Represent WADA at scientific conferences, workshops, and expert meetings and contribute to knowledge exchange across the international anti-doping research community;
- Share your expertise with colleagues and help foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required Qualifications and Experience
- A doctorate degree in a relevant field, such as chemistry or life sciences, combined with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience;
- Good knowledge of international sports movements;
- Demonstrated experience leading complex research portfolios and multidisciplinary teams;
- Experience managing budgets, governance processes, and research funding programs.
Assets / Preferred Qualifications
- Strong leadership, coaching, and people development capabilities;
- Good knowledge of anti-doping regulations;
- Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships;
- Excellent executive communication and presentation skills;
- Excellent oral and written skills in one of the two WADA official languages (English/French) and very good command of the other official language; Additional languages would be an asset;
- Fit with organizational culture: Teamwork, team spirit and love of sport;
- Aligned with WADA core values: Integrity, Openness, Excellence.
WHAT WE OFFER
- A Competitive Benefits Package.
