UQ researchers contributed to 6 of Québec Science’s 10 2024 discoveries

In January 2025, the results of the 32^e edition of Québec Science’s discoveries of the year have been announced. Among the 10 discoveries chosen, 6 benefited from the expertise of researchers from establishments at the University of Quebec.

• A laser to attack cancer
  We have succeeded in generating laser beams of electrons powerful enough to destroy tumors in ambient air. A breakthrough that we thought was impossible.
  François Légaré, National Institute of Scientific Research (INRS)
• The halibut time machine
  To ensure profitable and sustainable Atlantic halibut fishing, scientists are unlocking the secret of its migrations using the “black boxes” contained in its ears.
  Charlotte Gauthier and Pascal Sirois, University of Quebec at Chicoutimi (UQAC) and Dominique Robert, Institute of Marine Sciences of the University of Quebec at Rimouski (ISMER)
• The pill changes the brain
  Oral contraceptives, used by millions of women, are linked to the shrinkage of a brain region essential for emotion regulation.
  Marie-France Morin, University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM)
• Vegetation abounds along the Arctic coasts
  In the shallow waters of Arctic shores, algae, large and small, produce much more biomass than previously estimated. Crucial information in this warming ecosystem.
  Team of Marcel Babin, Laval University, including Simon Bélanger, University of Quebec at Rimouski (UQAR)
• You won’t have time to say “cheese”!
  An international team has developed the world’s fastest camera, a fantastic tool for better understanding the interaction between light and matter.
  Jinyang Liang, National Institute of Scientific Research (INRS)
• Finally a universal vaccine against bird flu?
  Using nanoparticles, a team has developed promising formulas for a universal avian flu vaccine and a modular intranasal vaccine.
  Denis Archambault, University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM)

Vote for your favorite discovery

To be won: Family outing in the heart of the Mont-Mégantic International Dark Sky Reserve (value of $700)

• 2 nights in an ECHO chalet, Mont-Mégantic National Park
• A daytime tour of the ASTROLab and the Observatory, including the film Émergence
• An evening of astronomy at ASTROLab, with the Northern Lights show
• Access to hiking trails during your stay

Deadline to participate: February 14, 2025
Registration form