Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award
Swiss laboratory for Doping Analyses | Switzerland
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger is a distinguished Privat-docent and Research Manager at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, University Hospital of Lausanne. With a proven track record in forensic science and anti-doping research, he has contributed significantly to advancing methodologies for detecting blood doping and other performance-enhancing practices. His leadership in managing research projects, mentoring graduate students, and fostering international collaborations has positioned him as an influential figure in forensic and biomedical sciences.
Professional Profile
Scopus
Education
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences and advanced qualifications in forensic and medical sciences, which laid the foundation for his career in anti-doping research. His academic background integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and forensic medicine, enabling him to explore novel biomarkers of blood manipulation and enhance anti-doping practices worldwide.
Experience
With extensive experience as Research Manager at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger oversees both research operations and biological unit management. He directs master’s and PhD projects, guiding students from experimental design to thesis completion. As part of the LAD management team, he coordinates grant applications, establishes ISO-accredited protocols, and supervises multidisciplinary collaborations with hospital units and global anti-doping laboratories. His consultancy roles with Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG, the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, and the World Anti-Doping Agency further demonstrate his expertise and international recognition.
Research Interests
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger’s research focuses on the discovery of innovative biomarkers for blood doping, particularly through the fields of ironomics and transcriptomics. His pioneering work on erythroferrone and hepcidin as indicators of blood manipulation has reshaped anti-doping science. Currently, he is advancing mRNA biomarker detection from dried blood spots, enabling more accurate detection of autologous blood transfusions and micro-dose EPO administration. His commitment lies in developing cutting-edge forensic tools that safeguard the integrity of sports and public health.
Awards
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger has been widely recognized for his contributions to forensic and anti-doping science. His editorial appointment as Associate Editor of Frontiers in Sport and Active Living and his membership in the Swiss Haematology Society underscore his professional standing. He has also been invited as an expert reviewer for the World Anti-Doping Agency and other international bodies, reflecting his global impact on anti-doping policy and scientific innovation.
Publications
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger has authored over 45 peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals, significantly contributing to anti-doping and forensic biomarker research. A selection of his highly cited works includes:
1. Detection of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in human anti-doping control: Past, present and future
Journal: Drug Testing and Analysis
Published on: July 2012
2. Circulating microRNAs as Biomarkers for Detection of Autologous Blood Transfusion
Journal: PLoS ONE
Published on: June 2013
3. Circulating microRNAs: The Future of Biomarkers in Anti-doping Field
Journal: Drug Testing and Analysis
Published on: December 2015
4. Autologous Blood Transfusion in Sports: Emerging Biomarkers
Journal: Transfusion Medicine Reviews
Published on: May 2016
5. mRNA Biomarkers in Dried Blood Spots May Improve Detection of Autologous Blood Micro-Transfusions Using an Individualized Approach
Journal: Haematologica
Published on: August 2025
6. High Pretransplant Levels of Erythroferrone Are Predictive for 1-Year All-Cause Mortality and Acute Cellular Rejection after Heart Transplantation
Journal: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation
Published on: January 2025
7. New Transcriptomic Biomarkers for Detection of the Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (rHuEPO) MirCERA in Horses
Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
Published on: September 2024
8. Comparison between standard hematological parameters and blood doping biomarkers in dried blood spots within the athlete population of Swiss Sport Integrity
Journal: Haematologica
Published on: September 2024
Conclusion
Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger exemplifies scientific excellence through his pioneering research in anti-doping biomarker discovery, his leadership at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of forensic scientists. His contributions have not only advanced the global fight against blood doping but also strengthened the integrity of competitive sports. For these reasons, he is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
