OVERVIEW

The International Testing Agency (ITA) is committed to ensuring the integrity of sport through effective and independent anti-doping programs. In line with our mission and vision, we welcome proposals for research partnerships that aim to enhance the capacity, capabilities, quality and effectiveness of the work of the ITA in terms of implementation and delivery of anti-doping programs, and core operations including education and testing.

To explore potential research partnership proposals, ITA has established an application and assessment process for organisations wanting to partner with the ITA on research projects. This procedure is designed to evaluate the potential benefit and impact of proposed research projects on the work of the ITA and wider anti-doping community and to ensure that all research partnerships undertaken align closely with ITA’s mission and strategic objectives.

RESEARCH ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Research partnership proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria.

1. Relevance and strategic alignment to the ITA’s core objectives and mission.

2. Practical implementation of the outcomes into the work of the ITA and its partners.

3. Potential impact on the quality and effectiveness of the ITA’s testing operations.

4. Reliance on ITA’s financial resources, versus non-financial partnership models.

5. Adherence to ethical standards, including privacy and data security.

6. Compliance and alignment with the World Anti-Doping Code and related international standards.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Proposal submission: Apply here

2. Initial screening:

ITA conducts a preliminary review to ensure completeness and alignment with ITA’s mission. This would be done within 1 week of submission, with the submitting person notified of the outcome.

3. Evaluation:

• An internal ITA panel assesses eligible proposals.
• For research related to drugs, health or medical topics, the proposal may also be further independently reviewed by the ITA’s Health and Clinical Expert Advisory Group.
• For research related to education topics, the proposal may also be further independently reviewed by the ITA’s Education Expert Advisory Group.
• For research relating to testing operations, the proposal may also be further independently reviewed by the ITA’s IDCO Expert Advisory Group.

4. Decision and feedback:

• All applicants receive a decision and feedback on their submission.

5. Partnership agreement:

• Successful applicants will be invited to enter into a formal research partnership agreement with ITA, detailing roles, responsibilities, and resource allocation.