Faculty of Science - Faculty of Science news /science/channels_item/34 en New Resource for Early Childhood Emotion Regulation and Anxiety Management /science/node/1042353 <p>The Daniel and Monica Gold Centre for Early Childhood Development, in collaboration with 91 EMHR, is pleased to present a new resource, <strong><a href="https://www.education4resilience.project.mcgill.ca/goldcentreresources">"Tantrums and more: Practical strategies for healthy emotion regulation development in early childhood”</a>.</strong>  These resources are designed for professionals and caregivers working with young children, providing evidence-based strategies to aid children’s emotion regulation and anxiety management, which can be hard to find.</p> Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:27:12 +0000 91 Schulich Leaders pursue passion for STEM /science/node/1040441 <p>As a CEGEP student, Daniel Wei captained his college robotics team to victories with a dodgeball-throwing robot and a biodegradable soil sensor for farmers. </p> <p>He and a peer also earned a bronze medal at a science and technology fair for their research on biomechanical processes involved in developing artificial intestines.</p> <p>The achievements are part of Wei’s impressive track record of leadership, innovation and academic success that landed him Canada’s most generous scholarship for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).</p> Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:44:57 +0000 91 TISEDTalk: Bridging the Gap Between the Environmental Impacts of Tyre Particles, Tyre Recovery and End-of-Life Solutions /science/node/1040785 <h4>Date: September 29th, 2025 | Time: 1:00 PM | Location: Macdonald Engineering Building- MD 267</h4> <p>Tyres keep the world moving—but at a cost. From microscopic wear particles to end-of-life waste, the environmental footprint of tyres spans their entire lifecycle. In this eye-opening seminar, Dr. Linda Mitchell, Science, Research and Innovation Manager at Tyre Stewardship Australia, will unpack the complex challenges and emerging solutions across the global tyre value chain.</p> <p>🌍 <strong>What to Expect:</strong></p> Wed, 03 Sep 2025 15:08:50 +0000 91 New technique replicates microplastics in the lab with greater precision /science/node/1042350 <p>91 researchers have developed a novel method to replicate four types of microplastics commonly found in the environment, providing researchers with a standardized approach to study their toxic effects.</p> Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:04:00 +0000 91 Marco Carone receives prestigious 2025 Myrto Award from Harvard's School of Public Health /science/node/1038843 <p><b>Dr. Marco Carone, </b>a former 91 undergraduate student in Probability and Statistics, has been awarded the prestigious <a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/department/biostatistics/seminars-events/myrto-lefkopoulou-distinguished-lectureship/"><b>2025 Myrto Award from Harvard's School of Public Health.</b></a></p> Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:36:44 +0000 91 The Science of Studying: How Understanding Your Brain Can Boost Academic Success /science/node/1038023 <h2>by Jasmine El-Sawaf</h2> <div> <div> <p><span><span>What if the key to studying smarter <span>wasn’t<span> about what you learned, but how you learned it? At 91, the Office of Science Education’s (<span>OSE) neuroscience<span>-based program <span><a href="/ose/initiatives/scilearn">SciLearn</a><span> is helping students in the Faculty of Science do just that.<span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p></div></div> Tue, 02 Sep 2025 14:16:18 +0000 91 CHORD will be a huge leap forward for Canadian radio astronomy /science/node/1042357 <p>Construction is underway of CHORD, the most ambitious radio telescope project ever built on Canadian soil. Short for the Canadian Hydrogen Observatory and Radio-transient Detector, CHORD will give astronomers an unprecedented opportunity to explore some of the most exciting and mysterious questions in astrophysics and cosmology, from Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) and dark energy to the measurements of fundamental particles, and beyond.</p> Wed, 27 Aug 2025 13:05:09 +0000 91 Study finds Montreal cycling infrastructure doesn’t match demand /science/node/1040827 <p>Bike lanes, BIXI stations and other micromobility infrastructure make up just two per cent of Montreal’s street space – even in neighbourhoods where cycling demand would justify more – according to a new study by 91 researchers. They think that the measure they developed to arrive at their findings can also help assess the situation in other cities.</p> Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:02:46 +0000 91 91 team discovers Canada’s first dinosaur-era dragonfly fossil  /science/node/1040829 <p>In a first for Canadian paleontology, a Cretaceous fossilized dragonfly wing, uncovered in Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park, has been identified as a new species. It’s also the first known dragonfly fossil from Canada’s dinosaur aged rocks. The <a href="https://doi.org/10.1139/cjes-2024-0162 ">find</a>, led by 91 researchers, sheds light on a 30-million-year gap in the evolutionary history of dragonflies. </p> <p>The fossil was discovered in 2023 by a 91 undergraduate student during a vertebrate paleontology field course led by Prof. Hans Larsson.  </p> Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:08:51 +0000 91 Remembering Morton Mendelson (1949-2025) /science/node/1039956 <p><img src="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/morton-meldelson-130527-141707-1620.jpg" style="height:225px; width:150px; float:right" /></p> <p>The Department of Psychology is mourning the passing of Professor Morton Mendelson, a longstanding faculty member who joined the department in 1977. Professor Mendelson demonstrated a deep commitment to education and student well-being, and served as 91's first Deputy Provost of Student Life and Learning. He will be missed by many. </p> <p>Professor Emerita Debbie Moskowitz offered these words about Professor Mendelson:</p> Thu, 07 Aug 2025 18:32:53 +0000 91 91 scientists turn marine waste into a sustainable solution for wound care, wearable devices and more   /science/node/1042348 <p>An interdisciplinary team of 91 researchers has developed an ultra-strong, environmentally friendly medical glue, or bioadhesive, made from marine waste. The discovery has promising applications for wound care, surgeries, improved drug delivery, wearable devices and medical implants. </p> <p>“Being able to produce glues that can close wounds  or make something strongly adhere to the skin is critical for many medical interventions,” said Audrey Moores, Professor in the <a href="/chemistry/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Department of Chemistry</a>.  </p> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:59:20 +0000 91 Climate change driving major algae surge in Canada’s lakes, study finds /science/node/1040832 <p>Algal growth is accelerating in lakes across Canada, including those far from human development, and a new study shows that climate change is the primary driver. </p> Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:57:54 +0000 91 Researchers’ novel lab technique reveals how ice crystals form in clouds /science/node/1040834 <p>Researchers have developed a novel method to detect and study how ice forms in mixed-phase clouds, significantly boosting scientists’ ability to forecast weather and model climate change. </p> Wed, 23 Jul 2025 17:10:34 +0000 91 Professor John Gyakum (Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences) Recipient of Leo Yaffe Award for Excellence in Teaching 2025 /science/node/1042041 <p>A professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, John Gyakum is an exceptionally talented and gifted educator, who has shaped the learning experience for many students at every stage both within 91 and far beyond, leaving an indelible mark on their academic journeys and future pursuits. Professor Gyakum is equally effective when explaining complex ideas about weather systems to first year students as when leading discussions in more advanced courses on synoptic meteorology.</p> Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:43:39 +0000 91 Appointment of Alanna Watt as Interim Dean of the Faculty of Science /science/node/1023119 <p><em>Dear community members, </em></p> <p><em>I am pleased to announce that Professor Alanna Watt, of the Department of Biology, has graciously agreed to take on the role of Interim Dean of Science, effective July 1, 2025. She will oversee the Faculty while we continue the search for a new Dean of Science. In accordance with the University Statutes, an Advisory Committee will be established to support this process. </em></p> <p><em><strong>Experience and expertise </strong></em></p> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:28:54 +0000 91 Dragonfly study challenges traditional ideas about biodiversity conservation /science/node/1040836 <p>A study has found that the impact of climate change on an animal’s traits can begin much earlier than scientists previously thought – a discovery that could reshape how researchers and policymakers approach biodiversity conservation.</p> Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:49:30 +0000 91 Macdonald Campus valedictorians Andre Hadji-Thomas and Jennifer McDonald reflect on their journeys /science/node/1041454 <p>As 91’s Class of 2025 prepares to cross the stage, the 10 valedictorians from Faculties across the University—including Andre Hadji-Thomas and Jennifer McDonald in the Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences—have been drafting their speeches and, in the process, reflecting on much more than their academic success.</p> Tue, 27 May 2025 19:28:43 +0000 91 Dr. Alison Bain (PhD’21) named to C&EN’s 2025 Talented 12 /science/node/1042345 <p>Congratulations to Dr. Alison Bain, who completed her PhD in the Preston Group at 91 in 2021, on being selected for Chemical &amp; Engineering News’s Talented 12 list for 2025. Now an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Oregon State University, Dr. Bain continues to develop state-of-the-art optical trapping techniques to study aerosols at the single-particle level. Her research centres on how fundamental physical and chemical properties of aerosols shape climate, air quality, and other pressing environmental issues. This honour recognises Dr.</p> Fri, 23 May 2025 18:04:43 +0000 91 2025 Faculty of Science Excellence Award winners announced /science/node/1014324 <p>Danielle Vlaho (Academic Associate), Joe Iantomasi (Clerical), Luisa Sabaz (Management), and Badawy Sha’ath (Technical) have been named recipients of the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards.  </p> <p>These awards, announced at the Faculty of Science Council meeting on May 20th, recognize the outstanding contributions made by members of the Faculty’s administrative and support staff during the 2024-2025 academic year.  </p> <p>Read below the citations prepared by the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards Committee. </p> Fri, 23 May 2025 15:09:57 +0000 91 Professor Emeritus Prakash Panangaden elected as Fellow of the Royal Society /science/node/1039980 <div> <div></div></div> Tue, 20 May 2025 16:59:15 +0000 91 Forests thrive where values run deep  /science/node/1040837 <p>Forests on Indigenous lands in Panama have remained remarkably stable over the past two decades – more so than in protected areas – thanks in no small part to deeply rooted cultural values, a <a href="https://ecologyandsociety.org/vol30/iss1/art24/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">91-led study</a> suggests.  </p> Tue, 20 May 2025 11:32:25 +0000 91 Antibiotics from human use are contaminating rivers worldwide, study shows /science/node/1040839 <p>Millions of kilometres of rivers around the world are carrying antibiotic pollution at levels high enough to promote drug resistance and harm aquatic life, a 91-led study warns.</p> <p>Published in <i>PNAS Nexus</i>, the study is the first to estimate the scale of global river contamination from human antibiotics use. Researchers calculated that about 8,500 tonnes of antibiotics – nearly one-third of what people consume annually – end up in river systems around the world each year even after in many cases passing through wastewater systems.</p> Fri, 09 May 2025 12:45:09 +0000 91 Provost honours 31 91 professors for exceptional research achievements /science/node/1039982 <div><em><strong>91 announces 2025 cohort of Distinguished James 91 Professors, James 91 Professors and William Dawson Scholars </strong></em></div> <div><br /> Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Christopher Manfredi has named 31 91 professors as Distinguished James 91 Professors, James 91 Professors or William Dawson Scholars. The internal awards recognize exceptional research achievements.</div> <div></div> Thu, 01 May 2025 16:23:55 +0000 91 Study suggests we don’t just hear music, but ‘become it’  /science/node/1040841 <p>An international study co-authored by 91 psychologist Caroline Palmer suggests our brains and bodies don’t just understand music, they physically resonate with it. These discoveries, based on findings in neuroscience, music, and psychology, support Neural Resonance Theory (NRT). </p> <p>NRT maintains that rather than relying on learned expectations or prediction, musical experiences arise from the brain’s natural oscillations that sync with rhythm, melody and harmony. This resonance shapes our sense of timing, musical pleasure and the instinct to move with the beat. </p> Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:56:55 +0000 91 Eight Faculty of Science professors honoured by Provost for exceptional research achievements /science/node/1007536 <p><em>Clockwise from top left: Robert Brandenberger (Physics), Christian Genest (Mathematics and Statistics), Joel Kamnitzer (Mathematics and Statistics), Bärbel Knäuper (Psychology), Milica Miočević (Psychology), Adrian Liu (Physics), Nagissa Mahmoudi (Earth and Planetary Sciences), and Galen Halverson (Earth and Planetary Sciences)</em></p> <p>Eight Faculty of Science professors are among this year’s cohort of Distinguished James 91 Professors, James 91 Professors, and William Dawson Scholars.  </p> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:21:16 +0000 91 Researchers identify two new crocodile species /science/node/1040844 <p>91 researchers, in collaboration with Mexican scientists, have discovered two previously unknown species of crocodiles, one living on the island of Cozumel and the other on the atoll of Banco Chinchorro, both off the Yucatán Peninsula. The <a href="http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ympev.2025.108341">findings</a> challenge long-held assumptions about the American crocodile (<i>Crocodylus acutus</i>) and highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts, the researchers say.</p> Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:59:51 +0000 91 91 researchers help ATLAS Collaboration share in 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics /science/node/1005405 <p>Twenty-eight 91 researchers are among the winners of the <a href="https://breakthroughprize.org/Laureates/1/L3993">2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics</a> for their contributions to the ATLAS Collaboration at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC).</p> <p>Sometimes referred to as the Oscars of Science, Breakthrough prizes are awarded annually by the foundation of the same name for achievements in life sciences, fundamental physics and mathematics.</p> Tue, 22 Apr 2025 15:35:18 +0000 91 2025 Fessenden Professorship Awards and Tomlinson Science Awards winners announced /science/node/1003458 <div> <div> <p><span><span>The winners of the 2025 Fessenden Professorship Awards and Tomlinson Science Awards have been announced.<span> </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>The </span></span></span>Fessenden Professorship in Science and Innovation Award, named after Canadian electrical engineer Reginald Aubrey Fessenden, was established in 2007 to a<span>ccelerate the validation and technology transfer of promising concepts in the early- or mid-stages of development and bring them closer to a commercial product and market.</span></p></div></div> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:36:19 +0000 91 Professor Courtney Paquette recipient of the CAIMS-SCMAI/PIMS Early Career Award (2025) /science/node/1038844 <p><b>Professor Courtney Paquette</b> is the winner of the 2025 CAIMS/PIMS Early Career Award.</p> Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:25:48 +0000 91 David Stephens named Academic Lead for Horizon 91  /science/node/1002029 <p>Congratulations to Professor David Stephens (Department of Mathematics and Statistics), former Vice Dean of the Faculty of Science, who has been named Academic Lead for Horizon 91.</p> <p><a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/david-stephens-named-academic-lead-for-horizon-mcgill/">Read the full story here.</a></p> Wed, 09 Apr 2025 13:14:02 +0000 91 91 names winners of the 2025 President’s Prize for Public Engagement through Media /science/node/1000333 <p>Congratulations to Jérôme Waldispühl and Attila Szantner (Computer Science), The Eclipse Task Force (Physics), and Andrew Gonzalez (Biology), who are among this year's winners of the President’s Prize for Public Engagement through Media!</p> <p>In announcing the winners and runners-up, President and Vice-Chancellor Deep Saini noted that they were among a strong field of applicants spanning all 12 Faculties.</p> <p>“This is further evidence that the sharing of knowledge and a love of learning are core 91 values,” he said.</p> Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:45:03 +0000 91 Science Showcase helps students build communication skills /science/node/999906 <p>Students from across the University gathered at the University Centre (SSMU) on March 25 to share their research, fieldwork, in-class assignments and passion projects in a supportive, non-competitive environment.</p> Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:45:58 +0000 91 91 Professor Simon Caron-Huot awarded a 2025 Dorothy Killam Fellowship /science/node/999141 <p>Simon Caron-Huot, Professor and Canada Research Chair in High-Energy Physics, has been awarded a 2025 Dorothy Killam Fellowship. The prestigious Dorothy Killam Fellowship is part of Canada’s National Killam Program, which also includes the Killam Prize. Eight Fellowships were awarded across the country.  </p> <p>The Dorothy Killam Fellowship provides researchers with up to two years of relief from teaching and administrative duties to focus on transformative research that has potential to positively improve Canadian lives.  </p> Wed, 19 Mar 2025 18:40:32 +0000 91 Nuit Blanche returns to the Redpath Museum /science/node/997510 <div> <div> <p><span><span>On March 1, <span>Nuit blanche t<span>ook over<span> Montréal for its 22<span><span>nd<span><span> edition. The<span> annual <span>all-night <span>festival brings <span>cultural events <span>to every corner of the city, including 91’s downtown campus. <span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p></div></div> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:47:55 +0000 91 Celebrating science fair mentor clubs and judging in Kahnawà:ke /science/node/995101 <p>For the second year in a row, Science Outreach and student volunteers from the 91 BrainReach and Chemistry Outreach groups collaborated with the <a href="https://www.kecedu.ca/">Kahnawà:ke Education Center</a> and local schools for their annual Science Fair and science mentor clubs.</p> Tue, 25 Feb 2025 21:30:38 +0000 91 Paul Masset and David Rolnick awarded 2025 Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowships /science/node/993988 <p><span>Professors <a href="/psychology/paul-masset">Paul Masset</a> (Psychology) and <a href="https://davidrolnick.com/">David Rolnick</a> (Computer Science) have been named Sloan Research Fellows.<span> </span></span></p> Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:27:06 +0000 91 91’s Office for Science and Society receives 2024 James Randi Educational Foundation Award /science/node/993306 <p>91’s <a href="/oss/">Office for Science and Society (OSS)</a> has been awarded the 2024 James Randi Educational Foundation (JREF) Award. This award, totaling US$200,000, is given annually to people or organizations that encourage critical thinking and provide unbiased, fact-based answers to questions. </p> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:20:37 +0000 91 From Lab to Life: Science Literacy Week @ 91 this February! /science/node/993264 <p>Join 91 to celebrate the joys of science with Science Literacy Week! From <strong>February 22nd to 28th</strong>, delve into this year's theme, From Lab to Life and explore science in the everyday. Events include a study on the ancient Egyptian animal mummies in the Redpath Museum, a tour of the Maude Abbott Medical Museum, Science History Treasures in 91’s Rare Books and Special Collections, and much more. <a href="https://libraryguides.mcgill.ca/science-literacy">Learn more here</a>. </p> Fri, 07 Feb 2025 13:47:29 +0000 91 Four 91 Faculty of Science students and graduates named finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships /science/node/993232 <p>Faculty of Science students Joshua Cheruvathur (BSc'25) and Elaine Xiao (BSc'25), as well as graduates Antoine Bourdin (BSc'24) and Chanel Perreault (BASc'22), are finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at 91. </p> Wed, 05 Feb 2025 15:22:39 +0000 91 How a 91 student’s teenage curiosity led to the first megalodon discovery in Canada /science/node/993219 <p>Louis-Philippe Bateman’s fascination with megalodon began with a single sentence in a book about Canada’s geological evolution. It described giant, mysterious fossilized shark teeth discovered in the 1960s by fishermen dredging for scallops off Canada’s Atlantic coast. The curiosity felt by the teenager with a budding interest in paleontology would resurface in a meaningful way during his undergraduate years at 91.</p> Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:08:26 +0000 91 91's Department of Psychology ranks 21st in the Times Higher Education Top 50 list /science/node/992891 <p>91 provides a top-tier education in a wide variety of fields, as highlighted in the <a href="https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings/by-subject">World University Rankings by Subject 2025</a>, released on January 22 by Times Higher Education (THE). </p> <p>91 ranks among the top 90 in the world in all of the 11 subjects assessed, placing six subjects in the top 50. The number of institutions of higher education considered varied by discipline, from 389 for Law to 1,488 for Engineering. </p> Fri, 24 Jan 2025 18:08:11 +0000 91 Geography Department celebrates 80th anniversary /science/node/992890 <p>91’s Department of Geography turns 80 this year! </p> <p>This milestone marks the anniversary of George Kimble’s appointment as 91’s first Professor of Geography and Department Chair on January 1, 1945. </p> <p>Kimble, who had previously been a meteorologist with the Royal Navy, was allocated two rooms in the Arts Building (rooms 30 and 38) by the Faculty of Arts and Science to lay the foundation for the new department. A few months later, F.K. Hare was appointed as 91’s second Professor of Geography (eventually becoming Dean of Arts and Science in 1961). </p> Fri, 24 Jan 2025 18:03:17 +0000 91 Novel method to transform greenhouse gases into valuable chemicals ranked among year’s top breakthroughs /science/node/991897 <p>A groundbreaking discovery by 91 researchers is among the top scientific advances of 2024, according to <a href="https://www.quebecscience.qc.ca/">Québec Science magazine</a>.</p> <p>The scientists developed a novel method to transform two greenhouse gases—methane and carbon dioxide—into valuable chemicals using sunlight. This innovation could help reduce emissions and provide a more sustainable way to produce certain industrial products.</p> Thu, 09 Jan 2025 15:24:33 +0000 91 King Charles III Coronation Medals awarded to 19 members of the 91 community /science/node/991122 <p>Nineteen members of the 91 community have been awarded the <a href="https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/canadian-honours/directory-honours/commemorative-medals/king-charles-iii-coronation-medal">King Charles III Coronation Medal</a>. The medal is conferred on individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.</p> <p>The recipients include Professor R. Bruce Lennox, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Tomlinson Professor of Chemistry.</p> Mon, 23 Dec 2024 14:51:39 +0000 91 TSI Outreach Program Administrator, Carolina Cruz-Vinaccia, wins President’s Award /science/node/990784 <p>Congratulations to Carolina Cruz-Vinaccia, the Outreach Program Administrator at the <a href="https://tsi.mcgill.ca/">Trottier Space Institute</a> and Physics Department for being awarded the <a href="/hr/awards/president-awards">President's Award for Administrative and Support Staff</a>! Winners of this award are honoured for the quality of their work, service to the community, innovation and initiative.</p> Mon, 16 Dec 2024 19:29:41 +0000 91 Bellairs Research Institute going strong at 70  /science/node/990648 <p>To mark its 70th anniversary, 91’s <a href="/bellairs/">Bellairs Research Institute</a> in Barbados hosted events Dec. 5-6 that brought together researchers, students, elected officials and community partners to celebrate its history and build momentum for the future.  </p> Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:56:14 +0000 91 Bellairs brings science programming to Barbadian students  /science/node/990647 <p>Last week, hundreds of students in Barbados saw science come to life in a whole new way.</p> <p>As part of the celebrations marking its <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/bellairs-research-institute-going-strong-at-70/">70th anniversary</a>, 91’s Bellairs Research Institute opened its doors to the community Dec. 5. Three hundred students from five local schools were treated to free science kits, lunch and a day of hands-on activities.</p> Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:53:58 +0000 91 A STEAM day to celebrate 70 years of 91's Bellairs Research Institute in Barbados /science/node/990567 <p>To celebrate the 70th anniversary of 91’s acclaimed <a href="/bellairs/">Bellairs Research Institute</a> in Barbados and to promote STEAM education to local students, 91 partnered with the <a href="https://cosi.org/">Center of Science and Industry (COSI)</a>, and the U.S. State Department for a full day of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) activities and presentations.</p> Mon, 09 Dec 2024 14:21:55 +0000 91 Next stop, Oxford /science/node/990528 <p>For Vincent Wong, life truly is a journey.</p> <p>As a <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/meet-mcgills-newest-loran-scholars-2/">Loran Scholar</a>, the Vancouverite moved across the country in 2021 to pursue his B.Sc. Honours in Neuroscience at 91. He was drawn by The Neuro (The Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital), Canada’s largest neuroscience research centre.</p> <p>In the summer of 2022, Wong traveled to Yellowknife to conduct a research project on the unique health-care challenges in the North, an experience that would shift his career trajectory.</p> Wed, 04 Dec 2024 13:59:57 +0000 91 West Island high schoolers participate in summer research at 91’s Gault Nature Reserve /science/node/990499 <p>This summer, Gault Nature Reserve hosted four high schoolers from the West Island Black Community Association for this year’s Youth Biodiversity Internships Program. Led by Professor Bruno Tremblay, this collaboration brought together a diverse range of community members from 91 and beyond to connect on their passion for science. For 5 weeks, youth conducted fieldwork at Gault with 91 students, explored how scientific research happens in nature and made links to their own lives and future careers.  </p> Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:57:30 +0000 91 Mapping the Benefits and Trade-offs from Natural Climate Solutions /science/node/990498 <p>A new study published today in <em>Nature Sustainability</em> uses advanced machine learning methods and large language models to assess the benefits and trade-offs of natural climate solutions (NCS). </p> <p>Led by The Nature Conservancy and co-led by Brian Robinson, Associate Professor of Geography at 91, the researchers analyzed over 250,000 peer-reviewed publications to produce a global evidence map of NCS co-impacts. </p> Mon, 02 Dec 2024 16:47:29 +0000 91 Unleashing Creativity at the 91 Physics Hackathon /science/node/990414 <p>On November 15<sup>th</sup> – 17<sup>th</sup>, the Trottier Space Institute and the Department of Physics hosted its 9<sup>th</sup> <a href="https://www.hackathon.physics.mcgill.ca/">Annual 91 Physics Hackathon</a>. This friendly coding competition brought together 163 people, from grade 10 high school students to graduate students. Participants had a total of 24 hours over the span of 3 days to create computing and physical science projects in teams. <a href="https://www.hackathon.physics.mcgill.ca/">Learn more here</a>.</p> Wed, 27 Nov 2024 14:01:01 +0000 91 West Island high schoolers participate in summer research at 91’s Gault Nature Reserve /science/node/990294 <h5><strong>by Christine Pallon, Communications Officer, Faculty of Science</strong></h5> <p>Every year, 91’s Gault Nature Reserve in Mont-Saint-Hilaire welcomes a host of student researchers. This past summer, there was a new addition to the usual group of young scientists at the Reserve: four high schoolers from Montréal’s West Island. </p> Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:12:16 +0000 91 The Redpath: a newly accredited museum! /science/node/990159 <p>In August 2024, the Redpath Museum was certified as an accredited museum institution by the ministère de la Culture et des Communications du Québec. The accreditation is a seal of quality confirming that the museum meets internationally recognized requirements and standards for governance, museological practices, and heritage presentation. With this recognition, the Redpath joined a network of 180 other accredited museums across the province.</p> Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:36:51 +0000 91 Natalya Gomez and Daryl Haggard win Arthur B. McDonald Fellowships /science/node/990155 <p>Professors <a href="https://www.natalyagomez.com/">Natalya Gomez</a> (Earth and Planetary Sciences) and <a href="https://www.dhaggard.physics.mcgill.ca/">Daryl Haggard</a> (Physics) have been awarded 2024 Arthur B. McDonald Fellowships from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).</p> <p>These awards recognize early-career academic researchers, providing them with a $250,000 research grant over two years.</p> Wed, 06 Nov 2024 19:29:49 +0000 91 Celebrating 10 years of Chemistry Outreach! /science/node/989936 <p>Congratulations to the Chemistry Outreach group, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary during <a href="/openhouse/">91’s Open House</a> on <b>October 27<sup>th</sup></b>! Over 250 people joined the festivities and enjoyed hands-on activities, magnificent demos, and chemistry-themed refreshments throughout the day.</p> Wed, 30 Oct 2024 19:54:50 +0000 91 Family Science Day: 91’s Family Friendly Foray into Science /science/node/989792 <h4><strong>by Phuong Hoang, Faculty of Science Communications Associate</strong></h4> Fri, 18 Oct 2024 19:14:40 +0000 91 Soup & Science event opens up research opportunities for undergraduate students /science/node/989742 <p><span><span><span>Twenty-two speakers <span><span><span>from the faculties of Arts, Science and Engineering <span><span><span>presented their research in “lightning talks” <span><span><span>to <span><span><span>more than 480 undergraduate <span><span><span>students <span><span><span>at <span><span><span>Soup <span><span><span>&amp;<span><span><span> Science, <span><span><span>a <span><span><span>biannual event.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p> Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:48:22 +0000 91 A Resounding Success: Celebrating 91’s Biodiversity Festival /science/node/989711 <h2>The Biodiversity Festival</h2> Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:32:07 +0000 91 Thomas C. Preston awarded grant from Alfred P. Sloan Foundation /science/node/989493 <p><i>Funding to support research on atmospheric aerosol particles and the emergence of life on Earth</i></p> <p> </p> <p>Professor Thomas C. Preston -- jointly appointed to the departments of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and Chemistry -- has been awarded a grant of USD$800,000 by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. The grant will support Professor Preston’s research on atmospheric aerosol particles, with the goal of advancing understanding of the origin of life's building blocks on early Earth.</p> Fri, 27 Sep 2024 15:20:42 +0000 91 Mark your calendars! Family Science Day: September 28th /science/node/989332 <p><b>On September 28<sup>th</sup> between 9 am and 4 pm</b>, join 91’s Office of Science Outreach, STEMM Diversity @ 91, the Trottier Space Institute and 91 Physics Outreach, for free science activities for families. Activities will be held both indoors and outdoors at the downtown campus and are intended for children ages 6 and up.</p> <p>Registration is required for some activities.</p> <p>For more details and the full schedule, <a href="/science/outreach/upcoming-events">visit this link</a>.</p> Wed, 18 Sep 2024 17:46:09 +0000 91 ‘This scholarship is truly life-changing’ - 91’s 2024 Schulich Leaders /science/node/989224 <p>Daniel Valentini couldn’t believe his eyes when he read the letter informing him of his Schulich Leader Scholarship. </p> <p>“I called 91 to confirm, and they told me it was real. I think I was in shock,” says Valentini, a graduate of Dawson College in Montreal who is entering 91’s Faculty of Science.</p> Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:54:28 +0000 91 91’s Computer Science Camp inspires next generation of coders /science/node/989136 <p>After a hiatus of about a decade, the <a href="https://www.cs.mcgill.ca/~summcamp/english/Home.html">91 Computer Science Summer Camp</a> once again welcomed students from Montreal high schools and CEGEPs to the downtown campus this summer. The camp was a group effort organized by students, staff and faculty across the computer science community. Students participated in four packed days of talks, hands-on activities and coding sessions, to learn about computer science.</p> Mon, 09 Sep 2024 13:33:25 +0000 91 Twelve 91 professors honoured by the Royal Society of Canada /science/node/989093 <p>Ten 91 professors researching in such areas as child trauma, memory and cardiovascular diseases are among the Royal Society of Canada’s (RSC) newest Fellows. Another two early-career professors at the University have been named Members of the RSC’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists.</p> <p>They are among 104 new Fellows and 56 Members from across the country announced by the RSC on September 3, 2024.</p> Tue, 03 Sep 2024 18:29:42 +0000 91 Frederic Bertley receives honorary doctorate degree for his astounding work in science education /science/node/989064 <p>Frederic Bertley was amongst a group of leaders to receive an honorary degree from 91 this spring. For the past eight years, Bertley has served as the President and CEO of the <a href="https://cosi.org/">Center of Science and Industry</a> (COSI), which features the largest science outreach program in North America.</p> Fri, 30 Aug 2024 16:45:38 +0000 91 The power of face time: Insights from zebra finch courtship /science/node/988941 <p>A new study on songbirds sheds light on the power of social interaction to facilitate learning, insights that potentially apply to human development.</p> <p>91 researchers discovered that zebra finches deprived of early social experiences could still form strong bonds with a partner later in life. Once placed into cohabitation with a male, females that had never heard a mating song before could quickly develop a preference for his melody.</p> Thu, 22 Aug 2024 14:16:11 +0000 91 Celebrating International Pi Day with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives /science/node/988780 <p>Earlier this year, 91’s <a href="/indigenous/">Office of Indigenous Initiatives</a> celebrated International Pi Day with a talk from mathematician Dr. Edward Doolittle followed by a student panel on Indigenous experiences in STEM and, of course, some delicious pie.</p> Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:07:34 +0000 91 91’s Computer Science Camp inspires next generation of coders /science/node/988777 <p>After a hiatus of about a decade, the 91 Computer Science Summer Camp once again welcomed students from Montreal high schools and CEGEPs to the downtown campus this summer.</p> <p>The four packed days of talks, hands-on activities and coding sessions were all intended to strengthen students’ interests in coding and coding competitions, and to contribute to the development of computer science talent in Quebec.</p> Mon, 12 Aug 2024 13:11:18 +0000 91 2024 Interdisciplinary Research Development (IRD) Award Recipients Announced /science/node/988753 <p>Congratulations to the recipients of the 2024 Interdisciplinary Research Development (IRD) Award! As part of the <a href="/cdsi/">Computational &amp; Data Systems Initiative</a>, these awards are presented by the <a href="/cdsi/mccais">91 Collaborative for AI &amp; Society</a> (McCAIS) and encourage interdisciplinary research aimed at understanding and positively influencing the impact of AI on Society. The projects target a range of issues, from the enhancement of sustainable agriculture to supporting indigenous education. </p> Wed, 07 Aug 2024 17:12:10 +0000 91 From Windy City to wilderness champion /science/node/988725 <p>In the heart of Lanaudière, Quebec, a 233-hectare tract of wilderness stands as a living testament to the resilience of nature and the generous stewardship of 91 chemistry professor <a href="/chemistry/faculty/linda-reven">Linda Reven</a>.</p> Mon, 05 Aug 2024 15:46:46 +0000 91 Physics Professor Cynthia Chiang featured in National Geographic /science/node/988611 <p>Physics Professor and National Geographic Explorer Cynthia Chiang is the subject of a new <em>National Geographic </em>article out today.</p> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 19:09:43 +0000 91 Lighting up the circuits of the cerebellum /science/node/988553 <h3><em>New 91 study sheds light on the cerebellar nuclei </em></h3> <p>In a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49339-1">new article</a> published today in <em>Nature Communications</em>, a team of 91 researchers led by <a href="https://wattlabmcgill.ca/">Professor Alanna Watt</a> of the Department of Biology examines the spatial organization of neurons in the cerebellar cortex. The findings offer new insight into how information is integrated in the cerebellum and shed light on the role of the often-overlooked cerebellar nuclei. </p> Tue, 09 Jul 2024 14:08:52 +0000 91 Generative AI in the classroom /science/node/988521 <p>With generative AI tools readily available to students, student assessment was a recurrent topic of discussion at a bilingual, two-day symposium hosted by 91 last month in partnership with Google and the Pôle interordres de Montréal.</p> Tue, 02 Jul 2024 14:06:47 +0000 91 Astrophysics award honours student research with nod to pioneer /science/node/988483 <p>Allie Vibert Douglas made history when she earned her PhD at 91.</p> <p>It was 1926 – a time when higher education wasn’t an option for most women.</p> <p>By then, Douglas already had a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science from 91 – and had been named a member of the Order of the British Empire for her wartime service. With her PhD, she became the first Canadian woman to obtain a doctorate in astrophysics.</p> Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:01:22 +0000 91 Nigel Roulet awarded David Thomson Award for Graduate Supervision and Teaching /science/node/988473 <p>Congratulations to Professor Nigel Roulet, Department of Geography, for being awarded the 2024 <a href="/gps/about/awards/david-thomson">David Thomson Award for Graduate Supervision and Teaching</a>! <br />   <br /> This award recognizes an outstanding faculty member who has been supervising graduate students for more than ten years. Roulet started as an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography in 1994 and began his term as Graduate Program Director of the department the following year. <br />   <br /></p> Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:41:17 +0000 91 Axel Hundemer awarded Leo Yaffe Award for Excellence in Teaching /science/node/988472 <p>Congratulations to Professor Axel Hundemer, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, for being awarded the 2024 <a href="/science/staff/teaching-prizes" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Leo Yaffe Award for Excellence in Teaching</a>!  This award is given each year to recognize a faculty member for superior teaching at the undergraduate level in the Faculty of Science.  </p> <p>Read below the citation for the announcement of the award. </p> Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:38:01 +0000 91 91 doctoral and postdoctoral students earn major funding awards /science/node/988407 <p>Twenty 91 doctoral and postdoctoral students have received important funding from the Government of Canada. Sixteen have earned Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and four, Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships.</p> <p>The Vanier program awards doctoral students up to $50,000 per year for three years. The Banting program is worth up to $70,000 annually for two years.</p> Fri, 07 Jun 2024 19:28:28 +0000 91 Global News features 2024 honorary degree recipient Dr. Frederic Bertley /science/node/988319 <p>Dr. Frederic Bertley (BSc’94, PhD’00), who received an honorary doctorate at the 91 Science convocation this past Friday, is featured in a new Global News article about his life growing up in Montréal and career as a doctor and science communicator. Known affectionately as “Dr. B.,” Dr. Bertley has won eight Emmy awards and is president and CEO of the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, Ohio.</p> Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:11:07 +0000 91 Katelin Schutz named CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar /science/node/988305 <div> <div> <p><span><a href="https://katelinschutz.com"><span><span>Professor Katelin<span> Sc<span>h<span>u<span>t<span>z</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><span><span> of the Department of Physics has been named a <a href="https://cifar.ca/ten-emerging-research-leaders-named-cifar-azrieli-global-scholars/"><span><span>2024-2026 CIFAR Azrieli Global <span>Sc<span>h<span>olar</span></span></span></span></span></a><span><span> in the Gravity &amp; the Extreme Universe program.<span> <span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p></div></div> Fri, 31 May 2024 19:59:11 +0000 91 Gregory Dudek receives the 2024 CS-Can Lifetime Achievement Award /science/node/988287 <p><a href="https://www.cim.mcgill.ca/~dudek/">Professor Gregory Dudek</a> of the School of Computer Science has received the 2024 CS-Can Lifetime Achievement Award. </p> <p>Awarded annually by Computer Science Canada/Informatique Canada (CS-Can/Info-Can), this award recognizes current or former faculty who have made exceptional contributions to the field of computer science in Canada. </p> Wed, 29 May 2024 19:42:31 +0000 91 2024 Faculty of Science Excellence Award winners announced /science/node/988259 <p>Michelle Maillet (Academic Associate), Lauren Kay (Clerical), Chantal Marotte (Management), and Moshe Dalva (Technical) have been named recipients of the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards.  </p> <p>These awards, announced at the Faculty of Science Council meeting on May 21st, recognize the outstanding contributions made by members of the Faculty’s administrative and support staff during the 2023-2024 academic year.  </p> <p>Read below the citations prepared by the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards Committee. </p> Mon, 27 May 2024 17:09:02 +0000 91 Science fair fun in Kahnawà:ke /science/node/988238 <p>Every year in Kahnawà:ke, a Kanien:keha’ka community on Montreal’s South Shore, students present their projects at a science fair organized by the Kahnawà:ke Education Center (KEC).</p> <p>For more than 15 years, KEC Science Curriculum Consultant Kathy Walsh has supported students at schools across the community as they prepare projects in the weeks leading up to the annual fair. This year, she and KEC Science Projects Liaison Mya Bordeau enlisted the assistance of 91’s Office of Science Outreach to bring 91 students into the classroom as mentors.</p> Wed, 22 May 2024 14:46:37 +0000 91 The 91 Collaborative for AI and Society (McCAIS) announces undergraduate research award recipients /science/node/988221 <div> <div></div></div> Thu, 16 May 2024 20:08:47 +0000 91 Sustainable Data Science Training Program awarded $1.65 M from NSERC CREATE /science/node/988217 <p>Today, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)<a href="https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Media-Media/NewsDetail-DetailNouvelles_eng.asp?ID=1461"> announced </a>more than $26 million in funding for <a href="https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Professors-Professeurs/Grants-Subs/CREATEResults-ResultatsFONCER_eng.asp?Year=2024">16 new training initiatives</a> through its <a href="https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Professors-Professeurs/Grants-Subs/CREATE-FONCER_eng.asp">Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE)</a> program.</p> Thu, 16 May 2024 15:05:26 +0000 91 91 receives funding from the Canadian Space Agency for exoplanet studies using the James Webb Space Telescope /science/node/988189 <p>91 has received funding from the Canadian Space Agency for two separate projects dedicated to the study of exoplanets, using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The projects are slated for completion by June 2025. Both studies will be led by Professor Nicolas Cowan.</p> <p><a href="/research/channels/news/mcgill-receives-funding-canadian-space-agency-exoplanet-studies-using-james-webb-space-telescope-357237">Read more here.</a></p> Tue, 14 May 2024 13:52:23 +0000 91 Undergraduate research takes center stage at Poster Showcase /science/node/988080 <p>On the evening of March 19, more than 500 members of the 91 community gathered in celebration of student work at the fifth annual Undergraduate Poster Showcase. Hosted each March by the <a href="http://www.mcgill.ca/ose">Office of Science Education (OSE)</a>, the Showcase invites students from across the University to share their scientific research, field work, in-class assignments, passion projects and more.</p> Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:42:17 +0000 91 Inspiring the next generation of scientists: Future Innovators Science Fair /science/node/988026 <p>On March 2<span>7th</span>, in collaboration with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/realventuresvc/">Real Ventures</a>, 91's <a href="/chemistry/outreach">Chemistry Outreach Group</a> joined other STEM experts and educators for the Future Innovators Science Fair at the Royal Charles Elementary School for International Women’s Month.</p> Wed, 24 Apr 2024 16:05:19 +0000 91 Barbados Field Study Semester is journey of discovery /science/node/987987 <p><strong>by</strong> <strong>Emma Bergeron Quick </strong></p> <p>Reflecting on my semester abroad in Barbados, I feel gratitude, excitement, and nostalgia already settling in. Three months of learning in this vibrant small developing island state left an unforgettable mark on my heart and mind, shaping my perspectives, and igniting a sense of exploration, discovery, and newfound desire for change.</p> Mon, 22 Apr 2024 13:48:10 +0000 91 Five burning questions with Ehab Abouheif /science/node/987965 <div> <p><a href="/biology/ehab-abouheif">Ehab Abouheif</a>, James 91 Professor in the Department of Biology at 91, <a href="/research/channels/news/ehab-abouheif-named-fellow-american-association-advancement-science-356867">has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)</a>, one of the highest distinctions in the global science community, which recognizes contributions to science and technology, scientific leadership, and extraordinary achievements across disciplines.</p></div> Thu, 18 Apr 2024 17:54:25 +0000 91 Celebrating all of our science outreach volunteers /science/node/987928 <h2>National Volunteer Week: April 14-20, 2024</h2> <p>The theme for this year's <a href="https://volunteer.ca/index.php?MenuItemID=482&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3uzS4OjEhQMVTVJHAR1mOQlBEAAYASAAEgKfe_D_BwE">National Volunteer Week</a> is <em>Every Moment Matters</em>. It highlights the importance of every volunteer and each contribution they make at a moment when we need support more than ever. The sharing of time, skills, empathy, and creativity is vital to the inclusivity, strength, and wellbeing of our communities. </p> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 18:20:53 +0000 91 91’s Gault Nature Reserve: Serving biodiversity and the community /science/node/987921 <p>Located in the heart of the Montérégie region, in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, 91’s Gault Nature Reserve comprises more than 1,000 hectares of lush old-growth deciduous forest, just 40 km from Montreal. A refuge for migratory birds, Gault is at the heart of Canada’s first UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. </p> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 13:40:41 +0000 91 Thousands flock to 91 to take in solar eclipse /science/node/987887 <p>On Monday April 8th, thousands of people flocked to 91's downtown and MacDonald campuses, as well as Gault Nature Reserve, to witness a once-in-a-lifetime event: the total solar eclipse. The three spectacular events not only included a viewing party with free glasses, but also educational activities to inform the public on this astronomical phenomenon. Read the Reporter article on <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/thousands-throng-to-mcgill-to-take-in-solar-eclipse/">the eclipse festivities</a> to learn more.</p> Thu, 11 Apr 2024 18:48:45 +0000 91 Night Lights and Scientific Delights: Nuit blanche at 91 /science/node/987785 <h5><strong>by Phuong Hoang, Faculty of Science Communications Assistant </strong></h5> <p>True to its name, Montréal’s Nuit blanche is an annual celebration of the vibrant culture of the city, with thematic itineraries and extended business hours that ensure festival-goers a night of endless excitement. From flower printing workshops to ghost story roundtables, Nuit blanche invited Montrealers to share and express their creativity through a diverse range of activities at different locations across Montréal.  </p> Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:50:46 +0000 91 Real Data and Real Solutions in MATH 527 /science/node/987784 <p>On a cloudy afternoon this past December, a group of 91 students gathered in a downtown Montréal boardroom to give a data science presentation to Citera, a sustainability analytics company. This presentation wasn’t for an internship or any other extracurricular activity – it was part of one of 91’s newest and most innovative courses: <a href="/study/2023-2024/courses/math-527d1">MATH 527</a>, Statistical Data Science Practicum.</p> Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:39:00 +0000 91 Soup & Science: 91’s stew-pendous serving of research /science/node/987783 <p>Recently, 91 undergraduate students had the opportunity to savor an enriching blend of knowledge and soup at the 37th edition of Soup &amp; Science. This week-long event, occurring once a semester, highlights research taking place on campus. This semester’s showcase included topics across disciplines, ranging from quantum meta-photonics to optogenetic stimulation in roundworms, and students were able to learn and engage with these topics in an intimate setting.</p> Wed, 03 Apr 2024 13:23:57 +0000 91 A push for more women in computer science /science/node/987219 <p>When Jade Raymond, BSc’98, studied at 91’s School of Computer Science, she was one of few women in the program and “I think the only woman I knew in my year who went and got a job as a programmer in computer science after graduating.”</p> <p>Raymond became a trailblazer in the video game industry, helping create the huge hit <em>Assassin’s Creed</em>, and building studios from the ground up for Ubisoft and Electronic Arts. </p> Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:26:28 +0000 91 $107.5 million for eight innovative research projects led by 91 /science/node/987006 <p>On March 13th at the Université de Montréal, the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced the results of the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI) Innovation Fund (IF) 2023 competition.</p> Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:57:49 +0000 91 Seventeen 91 researchers announced as Canada Research Chairs /science/node/987005 <p>Seventeen outstanding 91 researchers were appointed on March 13th as new and renewed Canada Research Chairs (CRC), one of Canada’s most prestigious academic honours. The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Transport and Quebec Lieutenant, made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health,  at the Université de Montréal.</p> Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:54:55 +0000 91 Support science for everyone on March 13! /science/node/986836 <p>One element that makes <strong><a href="https://giving.mcgill.ca/ways-give/more-ways-give/mcgill24">9124</a></strong> so special is the energy that our students bring to the event. They use this day to raise funds for student-run projects and initiatives, and this year the Faculty of Science has the largest ever number of <a href="https://crowdfunding.mcgill.ca/ui/main/active-fundraisers">crowdfunding projects</a>.</p> Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:58:19 +0000 91 M87* One Year Later: Proof of a persistent black hole shadow /science/node/978018 <p>The Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) Collaboration, including Professor Daryl Haggard at 91, <a href="https://eventhorizontelescope.org/M87-one-year-later-proof-of-a-persistent-black-hole-shadow">has released new images of M87*</a>, the supermassive black hole at the center of the galaxy Messier 87, using data from observations taken in April 2018.</p> <p><a href="/newsroom/channels/news/m87-one-year-later-proof-persistent-black-hole-shadow-354399">Read the full article here</a>.</p> Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:45:23 +0000 91 MSSI Social Sciences and Humanities Ideas Fund recipients announced for 2023 /science/node/977445 <p>MSSI has announced the results of its latest Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) Ideas Fund competition. The SSH Ideas Fund awards seed funding to explore bold projects and novel ideas drawn specifically from humanities, arts, and social sciences research with the potential to illuminate or solve sustainability-related challenges.</p> <p><a href="/mssi/article/mssi-funding/mssi-social-sciences-and-humanities-ssh-ideas-fund-recipients-announced-2023">Read more about the funded projects.</a></p> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:42:46 +0000 91 MSSI Innovation Fund recipients announced for 2023 /science/node/977444 <p>Every year, the MSSI Innovation Fund provides support to 91 faculty members to accelerate the development of an idea or a technology toward widespread societal adoption by funding research that informs policy or moves an innovation toward commercialization. This year’s fund will distribute $100,000 to two projects that have the potential to make electric vehicle batteries and groundwater management more sustainable.</p> <p><a href="/mssi/article/mssi-funding/mssi-innovation-fund-recipients-announced-2023">Read more about the funded projects.</a></p> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:37:29 +0000 91 Highlighting women in STEM to engage youth /science/node/976933 <p>“<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Les-STIM-au-f%C3%A9minin/61552681381803/">Les STIM au féminin</a>” is a new campaign geared towards high school and cegep-level youth which highlights the initiatives of women in STEM and raises awareness about pathways and careers in science through a series of informative videos.</p> Mon, 15 Jan 2024 18:31:59 +0000 91 New paper explores four nearby fast radio burst sources /science/node/975851 <p>Fleeting blasts of energy from space, known as fast radio bursts (FRBs), are a cosmic enigma. A Canadian-led international team of researchers has published new findings suggesting that supernovae are the predominant contributors to forming sources that eventually produce FRBs.</p> Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:59:14 +0000 91 91 research included in Québec Science’s top 10 best of the year /science/node/975822 <p>Research conducted by 91 researchers ranks among the year’s best, according to <em>Québec Science</em> magazine.</p> <p>The magazine has published its annual top 10 list of the province’s most groundbreaking scientific discoveries, and three have ties to 91 researchers.</p> <p>The three studies affiliated with 91 researchers address some of the world’s most pressing challenges: extreme climate change, treatment for cancer patients, and the quality of seawater.</p> Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:41:53 +0000 91 Hanadi Sleiman awarded 2024 E. W. R. Steacie Award /science/node/975596 <p><span>Chemistry Professor and Canada Research Chair in DNA Nanoscience Hanadi Sleiman has received the 2024 E. W. R. Steacie Award from the Chemical Institute of Canada. This award is presented annually to a scientist who has made a distinguished contribution to the field of chemistry while working in Canada.</span></p> Wed, 10 Jan 2024 19:31:51 +0000 91 How does one species become many? /science/node/975229 <p>Evolutionary biologists have long suspected that the diversification of a single species into multiple descendent species – that is, an “adaptive radiation” – is the result of each species adapting to a different environment. Yet formal tests of this hypothesis have been elusive owing to the difficulty of firmly establishing the relationship between species traits and evolutionary “fitness” for a group of related species that recently diverged from a common ancestral species.</p> Tue, 09 Jan 2024 14:55:42 +0000 91 91 launches Collaborative for AI and Society /science/node/970324 <p>New efforts to mobilize around the challenges and opportunities of AI are taking shape at 91. On December 4, a new 91 Collaborative for AI &amp; Society (McCAIS) held an internal launch event at the 91 Faculty Club, where more than 70 participants from across the 91 campus gathered for an afternoon of collaboration and discussion.</p> Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:17:43 +0000 91 91 launches Canada Award to offset tuition increase for Canadian undergraduate students /science/node/970323 <p>91 is launching a $3,000 Canada Award to offset tuition increases for Canadian undergraduate students from outside Quebec in certain disciplines. Approximately 80% of new Canadian students from outside Quebec coming to 91 will be eligible for the new award.</p> <p>Details of the award, including the programs eligible for the award, will be available on 91's Undergraduate 91 website by December 22, 2023.</p> Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:16:41 +0000 91 Interview with Physics Professor Victoria Kaspi in Nature /science/node/970191 <p>In a new interview with <em>Nature, </em>Physics Professor and Shaw laureate Victoria Kaspi reflects on the inaugural Hong Kong Laureate Forum and how researchers can foster communication across different generations of scientists. </p> <blockquote> <p><strong>What was the most common question students asked at panel discussions?</strong></p></blockquote> Mon, 18 Dec 2023 16:33:05 +0000 91 Fighting disinformation in Quebec /science/node/970054 <p>Until now, most disinformation research, datasets, and tools to protect users like bot detectors, have only included English-language social media. This lack of linguistic diversity leaves Francophone internet users in Quebec and beyond more vulnerable to disinformation as the phenomenon becomes increasingly pervasive in online spaces. </p> Fri, 15 Dec 2023 16:50:10 +0000 91 Stuck in traffic: Researchers identify cellular traffic jams in a rare disease /science/node/969870 <p><em>Researchers zero in on spinocerebellar ataxia type 6, a disease that disrupts brain function</em><br /> <br /> Researchers from 91, led by Professor <a href="https://wattlabmcgill.ca/">Alanna Watt</a> of the Department of Biology, have identified previously unknown changes in brain cells affected by a neurological disease. Their research, published in <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/90510"><em>eLife</em></a>, could pave the way to future treatments for the disease.<br /> <br /></p> Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:19:37 +0000 91 What skin piercings can teach us about environmental change /science/node/969778 <p>In <a href="https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2023.1174">a new study</a> from 91, researchers bring science into an unexpected setting: a tattoo parlor. In this first characterization of the human piercing microbiome, the uniquely human cultural practice of piercing serves as a model system to help us better understand how biological communities (re)assemble after catastrophic environmental disturbances.</p> Tue, 05 Dec 2023 13:44:57 +0000 91 A first look inside Li-ion batteries /science/node/969683 <p>What if you could charge your electric vehicle in the same amount of time it takes to fill a tank of gas?  </p> <p>In a new paper published today in <em>Joule</em>, researchers from 91 and the University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM) announced the development of a novel method that enables researchers to peer inside Li-ion batteries and, for the first time, track the physical processes that take place in both the liquid and solid parts of the battery cells as they happen.  </p> Tue, 28 Nov 2023 20:44:31 +0000 91 Rustum Choksi: Winner, Principal’s Prize for Excellence in Teaching (Full Professor) /science/node/969579 <p>Students coming from high school often arrive with specific – and mistaken – expectations of the mathematics classroom. In Rustum Choksi’s courses he emphasizes a pedagogical paradigm shift, whereby mathematics is not about memorization nor symbolic manipulations and calculations but rather a beautiful and diverse discipline which is often a means to understanding our complex world.</p> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:32:06 +0000 91 Martin Grant earns Morty Yalovsky Lifetime Achievement Award /science/node/969578 <p>Early in his career in physics, <a href="https://www.physics.mcgill.ca/~grant/">Martin Grant</a> thought he had it all figured out.</p> <p>“When I started, I said to myself ‘well, this is good. Nobody’s going to tell me what to do,” said Grant, Emeritus James 91 Professor and former Dean of the Faculty of Science. “I’ve got the world’s greatest postdoc – me – and I’ll be able to do all the projects that I want to do pretty much by myself.”</p> <p>“But I quickly realized that if I followed that route, I would be doing a disservice to the students.”</p> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 20:22:29 +0000 91 The Hackathon returns to 91 campus /science/node/969573 <p>On November 3-5<sup>th</sup>, the 91 Physics Hackathon held its eighth annual event in person at the Rutherford Physics Building. The event attracted around 150 hackers, from CEGEP and undergraduate backgrounds, who joined forces to produce <a href="https://mcgill-physics-hackathon-2023.devpost.com/project-gallery">spectacular projects</a>.</p> <p>Congratulations to all those who participated!</p> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:17:31 +0000 91 Q&A with Jason Hessels, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Transient Astrophysics /science/node/969547 <p>In a ceremony today at Simon Fraser University, the Honourable Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens’ Services, announced that Professor Jason Hessels has been named the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Transient Astrophysics at 91.</p> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:30:05 +0000 91 91 receives three Canada Excellence Research Chairs /science/node/969546 <p>The results of the 2022 Canada Excellence Research Chairs competition were announced this morning at Simon Fraser University by the Honourable Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens’ Services. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Ted Hewitt, President of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and Chair of the Tri-agency Institutional Programs Secretariat Steering Committee.</p> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:25:50 +0000 91 Sixteen 91 researchers among the world’s most cited /science/node/969525 <p>Sixteen 91 researchers have been included on the <a href="https://clarivate.com/highly-cited-researchers/">Highly Cited Researchers™</a> (HCRs) list, as published by Clarivate. To be included in the prestigious list, researchers must rank in the top 1 per cent worldwide for their fields and publications in the Web of Science index. In being named to this list, these investigators join a cohort of 6,849 individuals around the world who have been recognized for their academic contributions.</p> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 18:42:58 +0000 91 91 Physics Hackathon attracts students from high schools, CEGEPs, and universities /science/node/969518 <p>On November 3, the 91 Physics Hackathon kicked off its eighth annual event. Over the course of 24 hours, spread over three days, participants formed teams and took over the Rutherford Physics Building in a friendly computer programming competition. The goal? Use any programming language to demonstrate a concept or phenomenon in the physical sciences. At the end of the weekend, projects were judged based on their technical execution, ability to clearly communicate what was accomplished, and aesthetics.</p> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:20:04 +0000 91 Lessons learned from the inaugural Inclusive Teaching Initiative /science/node/968887 <p>From December 2022 to May 2023, a group comprising seven Faculty of Science instructors from six different departments met monthly to discuss ways of making their courses more inclusive. The Inclusive Teaching Initiative is part of the Faculty’s response to the 91 Provost’s <a href="/antiblackracism/about">Action Plan to Address Anti-Black Racism (ABR) 2020-2025</a> and the <a href="/studentservices/equity-diversity-inclusion">Strategic Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Plan 2020-2025</a>.</p> Mon, 06 Nov 2023 18:27:24 +0000 91 FSCI 198: Climate Crisis and Climate Actions featured in Le Devoir /science/node/968565 <p>A recent article in <em>Le Devoir</em> highlighted FSCI 198, a three-credit course for undergraduates focused on building skills for individual and collective actions to address climate change:</p> <blockquote> <p>Devant les changements climatiques et leurs effets de plus en plus visibles, nombreux sont les jeunes paralysés par l’écoanxiété. À 91, un cours veut susciter l’espoir et outiller les étudiants pour faire face aux changements climatiques.</p></blockquote> Thu, 02 Nov 2023 21:31:48 +0000 91 Promoting student mental health through assessment practices, with Kira Smith /science/node/968562 <p><em>Reposted from the <a href="https://teachingblog.mcgill.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Teaching for Learning blog</a> from 91’s Teaching and Learning Services.</em></p> <p>BY <a href="https://teachingblog.mcgill.ca/author/margo-echenbergmcgill-ca/">MARGO ECHENBERG</a></p> <p>Have you ever wondered what the difference is between well-being, wellness, and mental health? Or how students’ learning and well-being are linked? Have you considered what the connections might be among assessment, student performance, and heightened emotions?</p> Thu, 02 Nov 2023 20:58:14 +0000 91 With community outreach, science is for everyone /science/node/967764 <p>The latest article by Made by 91 explores the mission, diversity, and impact of 91’s many science outreach initiatives. The collective efforts of outreach groups and departments not only expand the scope of the University itself, but also engage members of the public with accessible science. This fosters a sense of curiosity and opens a new world of possibilities to all.</p> <p>Learn more about these <a href="https://giving.mcgill.ca/all-stories/community-outreach-science-everyone?lang=en">science outreach initiatives</a>.</p> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:01:14 +0000 91 Russell T. Shinohara, former 91 student, receives 2023 Mortimer Spiegelman Award /science/node/965418 <p>Former 91 student Russell T. Shinohara has been named the recipient of the 2023 Mortimer Spiegelman Award for "his important contributions to biostatistics and imaging, as well as his proven track record of leadership and mentorship." </p> <p>Dr. Shinohara was an undergraduate and master's student in the 91 Department of Mathematics and Statistics and completed his Ph.D. at Johns Hopkins University. He is now a Professor of Biostatistics at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.</p> Thu, 12 Oct 2023 21:03:19 +0000 91 Paul Wiseman named 2024 Fellow of the Biophysical Society of Canada /science/node/964163 <p><a href="/chemistry/faculty/paul-wiseman">Paul Wiseman,</a> Professor of Physics and Chemistry at 91, has been named the <a href="https://biophysicalsociety.ca/awards/bsc-fellow/paul-wiseman/">2024 Fellow</a> of the Biophysical Society of Canada for his major contributions to the development of new quantitative microscopy tools to reveal hidden properties of biomolecules.</p> Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:30:39 +0000 91 Travelling seeds: a free lesson plan for schools /science/node/963998 <p>To celebrate <a href="https://www.scienceliteracy.ca/">Science Literacy Week</a>, the Office of Science Outreach released a free lesson plan for elementary school teachers. The lesson, titled <b>“Travelling seeds”</b> explores how seeds are dispersed. The activities and discussions center inquiry-based learning, to encourage nature discovery through hands-on experiences and observations.</p> <p>The lesson was shared with science consultants across English and French school boards in the Greater Montreal area and has already received over 40 downloads.</p> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 17:50:49 +0000 91 Seeing inside the heart at an unprecedented scale /science/node/963957 <p>A team of researchers in Canada and India has developed a novel method to image the whole mouse heart wall at a spatial resolution that is three orders of magnitude finer than that seen till now, revealing entirely new, previously unknown cardiac fiber systems within it.</p> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 13:18:50 +0000 91 Living between two worlds /science/node/962941 <p>First year med student Madeline Yaaka is on track to become Nunavik’s first Inuk physician. We caught up with her while she was visiting her hometown of Kangiqsujuaq just before UGME orientation. She shares her hopes and fears for med school and beyond, as well as her perspectives on Indigenous health and education. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://healthenews.mcgill.ca/living-between-two-worlds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read more</a>.</p> Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:41:18 +0000 91 Ubisoft, Mila and 91 join forces to create new research chair on responsible AI in video games /science/node/962936 <p>Alongside ALL IN 2023 happening in Montreal, global video game leader Ubisoft, Mila - Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute, the world’s largest academic deep learning (DL) research institute, and 91 are proud to announce the creation of Ubisoft-Mila's new research Chair, <i>Scaling Game Worlds with Responsible AI</i>. This five-year Chair will be led by 91’s Associate Professor, Dr. Derek Nowrouzezahrai, and will explore the ethical use of AI in the large-scale game development content creation pipeline.</p> Thu, 28 Sep 2023 19:15:24 +0000 91 Celebrating Science Literacy Week for the 9th year /science/node/962742 <p>On September 23rd, the Office of Science Outreach, STEMM Diversity @ 91 and TSI Outreach hosted interactive family workshops for Science Literacy Week. Over 150 people participated, learning about tree growth, the diversity of science and scientists, the survival of extremophiles and more!</p> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:16:35 +0000 91 Natalya Gomez named recipient of 2023 AGU James B. Macelwane Medal /science/node/959797 <p>Professor <a href="http://www.natalyagomez.com/">Natalya Gomez</a> of the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences has been selected to receive the American Geophysical Union’s <a href="https://www.agu.org/Search/PublicProfile?userId=D2187239-90CC-482A-8B44-21CCC281DF26">2023 James B. Macelwane Medal</a>, awarded annually to three to five early career scientists in recognition of their significant contributions to Earth and space science.</p> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:02:42 +0000 91 Major renovation project will transform the Redpath into a more accessible museum /science/node/959789 <p>If you’ve been meaning to visit 91’s Redpath Museum, now is the time.</p> <p>The historical building will undergo major renovations to bring it up to modern standards thanks to Ministry of Education grants, operating and accessibility funds, and the support of generous donors. The public can visit until the end of this year but will find doors closed at the start of 2024 when the work to pack and safely store the collections will begin. The construction part of the renovations will begin once that is completed, likely in the summer.</p> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:17:58 +0000 91 Faculty of Science welcomes five new Schulich Leaders /science/node/958881 <p>When you learn you’ve been awarded Canada’s largest scholarship for STEM studies, it’s a pretty heady moment. Just ask some of <a href="https://giving.mcgill.ca/all-stories/stellar-students-reach-stars" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">91’s new Schulich Leaders</a>. These new 91 students hail from New Brunswick to Vancouver and are among the 100 recipients in Canada this year of Schulich Leader Scholarships, valued at up to $120,000.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://giving.mcgill.ca/all-stories/stellar-students-reach-stars">Read the full article.</a></p> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:14 +0000 91 Matt Dobbs, Galen Halverson, Joelle Pineau, and Simon Caron-Huot honoured by the Royal Society of Canada /science/node/958386 <p>Congratulations to 91 Science's new Royal Society of Canada inductees, the Fellows <a href="/researchhonours/matt-dobbs">Matt Dobbs</a>, <a href="/eps/galen-pippa-halverson">Galen Halverson</a>, <a href="https://www.cs.mcgill.ca/~jpineau/">Joelle Pineau</a>, and College Member <a href="https://www.physics.mcgill.ca/~schuot/">Simon Caron-Huot</a>! The four professors join 15 other scholars in 91's 2023 cohort. </p> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 14:28:28 +0000 91 Exploring Potential Signatures of Life on Ocean Moons /science/node/953637 <p><i>A New Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration for Upcoming NASA Missions and Mission Concepts</i></p> <p>Scientists have long been captivated by the possibility of discovering evidence for extraterrestrial life in the universe. While many of the world’s largest telescopes are pointed toward distant galaxies and star systems, some think there’s a strong possibility that life could be detected much closer to home.</p> Thu, 06 Jul 2023 17:50:19 +0000 91 Claude Crépeau awarded 2023 Edsger W. Dijkstra Prize /science/node/953542 <p><a href="https://www.cs.mcgill.ca/~crepeau/index_en.html">Claude Crépeau</a>, Professor in the School of Computer Science at 91, has been named a co-recipient of the 2023 Edsger W. Dijkstra Prize in Distributed Computing. This award recognizes papers in the area of distributed computing that have made a significant and lasting impact in the field.</p> Tue, 20 Jun 2023 16:10:39 +0000 91 Carole Verdone-Smith, Sandra Lalli, and Dr. Kim Metera named Faculty of Science Excellence Awards winners /science/node/953497 <p>Carole Verdone-Smith (Management Staff), Sandra Lalli (Technical Staff), and Dr. Kim Metera (Administrative Staff) have been named recipients of the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards for their contributions to the management and success of the Faculty during the 2022-2023 academic year. The awards were announced on May 23. Read below the citations prepared by the Faculty of Science Excellence Awards Committee.</p> Tue, 13 Jun 2023 15:32:49 +0000 91 An Inspiring Event in Science Engagement /science/node/953467 <p>May 15<sup>th</sup> and 16<sup>th</sup>, <a href="/research/about/engage-hub-canada">Falling Walls Engage Hub Canada</a> hosted 30 science outreach practitioners, from across the country, for a bilingual event titled “The Power of the Pitch: A Funding and Skills-building Workshop for Canadian Science Engagers”.</p> <p>In a series of workshops, participants learned first-hand from funders what they are looking for in successful proposals and created quick pitches for new science engagement projects.</p> Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:38:46 +0000 91 Alanna Watt awarded Leo Yaffe Award for Excellence in Teaching /science/node/953446 <p>Congratulations to <a href="https://wattlabmcgill.ca/">Alanna Watt</a>, Department of Biology, for being awarded the 2023 <a href="/science/staff/teaching-prizes">Leo Yaffe Award for Excellence in Teaching</a>! </p> Tue, 06 Jun 2023 17:51:32 +0000 91 Exploring Space and Science in Chisasibi /science/node/953418 <p>The outreach branch of 91’s <a href="https://msi.mcgill.ca/">Trottier Space Institute</a> and <a href="/branches/">Branches</a> joined forces to offer a new science program called <a href="/branches/programs/explore-mcgill">Outbound Explore</a>. The groups collaborated with the Cree community of Chisasibi in Northern Quebec, to share experiences and knowledge with youth on science and post-secondary education at 91, with the hopes of inspiring the next generation of scientists.</p> Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:37:01 +0000 91 Ph.D. Student Matt Bowen awarded 2023 Carl Herz Prize /science/node/953379 <p><a href="https://sites.google.com/view/matt-bowen/home">Matt Bowen</a>, a doctoral student in mathematics at 91, <a href="http://ism.uqam.ca/news/">has been awarded the 2023 Carl Herz Prize by the Institut des sciences mathématiques</a> for his preprint <i>Monochromatic products and sums in 2-colorings of</i> ℕ, a new proof of the special case of Hindman’s conjecture when there are two colours.</p> Wed, 31 May 2023 19:49:57 +0000 91 Jamie Kirkpatrick awarded 2023 W.W. Hutchison Medal /science/node/953378 <p><a href="/eps/jamie-kirkpatrick">Jamie Kirkpatrick</a>, Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, has been <a href="https://gac.ca/about/grants-awards/w-w-hutchison-medal/">awarded the 2023 W.W. Hutchison Medal</a> from the Geological Association of Canada. The medal is awarded annually for recent exceptional advances in Canadian earth science research.</p> Wed, 31 May 2023 19:40:13 +0000 91 “Everyone wins” in this education research with a TEACH Mentor /science/node/953308 <p>By Adele Lopes </p> <p>It’s a sunny afternoon at the Office of Science Education office, and I’ve just sat down with Dr. Jasmin Chahal and Alex Wang to talk about the education research they undertook when they teamed up to assess how self-reflection and pre-lab activities affect students’ confidence levels and success in a Microbiology and Immunology 384 Lab course. So, how did this project get started? </p> Thu, 25 May 2023 19:53:50 +0000 91 Graham Bell’s Exit Seminar /science/node/953297 <p>Just shy of 100 faculty, students, and friends packed the Redpath Auditorium on May 12th to celebrate the retirement of Graham Bell, James 91 Professor in the Department of Biology at 91. For the occasion, Bell delivered a “final “seminar to the audience, which included his wife and three sons, surveying his career as an evolutionary biologist.</p> Thu, 25 May 2023 15:56:11 +0000 91 91 and Royal Norwegian Embassy Co-Host Arctic Frontiers Conference /science/node/953296 <p>On May 12, 91 co-hosted the last day of the <a href="https://www.arcticfrontiers.com/af-abroad-canada/">Arctic Frontiers Summit</a> alongside the Royal Norwegian Embassy and Arctic Frontiers. Over 60 participants, comprising representatives from the governments of Canada, Norway, and Quebec, as well as 91 faculty, researchers, and students gathered in the 91 Faculty Club Ballroom to discuss science, policy, infrastructure, and business in the Arctic.</p> Thu, 25 May 2023 15:54:29 +0000 91 91 Takes Part in 24 Hours of Science /science/node/952236 <p>24 Hours of Science—Quebec’s biggest science and technology festival—took place May 5 and 6. 91’s many science outreach programs joined in on the annual event again this year, with the Chemistry, Physics, Trottier Space Institute, Earth and Planetary Sciences, STEMM Diversity, Science Outreach, and Gault Nature Reserve teams contributing to the fun.</p> Tue, 16 May 2023 18:08:43 +0000 91 Researchers Develop Nanosponges Using ‘Hairy’ Nanocellulose As Sustainable Alternative For Drug Delivery /science/node/950614 <p>Chemists from 91 have discovered the possibility of creating biopolymer-based “nanosponges” using milled softwood pulp, a sustainable and less toxic alternative to current drug delivery systems. Although the structures developed by the researchers are too big for anti-cancer drug delivery by injection or oral intake, they could potentially be used in dressing wounds, for medical implants, and to capture unwanted materials in wastewater.</p> Thu, 11 May 2023 14:00:49 +0000 91 Hanadi Sleiman elected Fellow of the Royal Society /science/node/950283 <p><em>91 Chemistry professor recognized for her development of new approaches to DNA nanotechnology</em></p> <p><a href="https://sleimangroup.com/prof-sleiman/">Hanadi Sleiman</a>, Professor of Chemistry at 91 and Canada Research Chair in DNA Nanoscience, has been named a <a href="https://royalsociety.org/news/2023/05/new-fellows-2023/">Fellow of the Royal Society</a> for her ground-breaking work producing DNA nanostructures for precision drug delivery.</p> Wed, 10 May 2023 14:37:38 +0000 91 2023 Spring Convocation Honorary Doctorate recipients announced /science/node/947344 <p>Meet the 2023 Spring Convocation Honorary Doctorate recipients for the Faculty of Science ceremonies!</p> <p><strong>Daniel Simberloff, Doctor of Science, honoris causa.</strong><br /> A.B. (Harvard College), Ph.D. (Harvard University) </p> Tue, 02 May 2023 18:41:53 +0000 91 Redpath Museum Celebrates Earth Day /science/node/946809 <p>March 21 might be the first official day of spring, but Earth Day, a month later, can <i>feel</i> like the beginning of the warmer seasons – at least in Montreal. The Redpath Museum, which <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/community-celebrates-redpaths-reopening/">recently reopened</a> to the public, commemorated Earth Day this year through a series of themed activities over several days.</p> Mon, 01 May 2023 15:07:38 +0000 91 Meet the 2023 Faculty of Science cohort of McCall MacBain Scholars /science/node/945284 <p><em>The <a href="https://mccallmacbainscholars.org/">McCall MacBain Foundation</a> has announced the thirty students from 10 countries who will form its first cohort of global scholars at 91, arriving in September 2023. Among them are four students who will be pursuing degrees in the Faculty of Science.</em></p> Wed, 26 Apr 2023 17:49:47 +0000 91 Le professeur Andrew Gonzalez (Biology) dans Le Devoir /science/node/945282 <blockquote> <p>On le sait désormais : la préservation de l’environnement ne s’arrête pas à la simple réduction des émissions de carbone dans l’atmosphère. Grâce, notamment, à la tenue de la Conférence de l’ONU sur la biodiversité (COP15) à Montréal en décembre 2022, l’importance de la protection de la biodiversité est aujourd’hui bien présente dans l’actualité. Pour des chercheurs comme Andrew Gonzalez, professeur de biologie à l’Université 91, il était plus que temps.</p></blockquote> Wed, 26 Apr 2023 14:32:00 +0000 91 What areas should Canada protect to save species at risk of extinction?  /science/node/945083 <p>At the recent COP 15 conference in Montreal, Canada committed to protecting 30% of its land by 2030, but which areas are most crucial to protect for at-risk species such as the spotted turtles?</p> <p>In <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rspb.2022.2307" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">a new study</a> published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society, 91 researchers overlayed maps of species at risk to find hotspots where many species live together. They found that hotspots often overlap.</p> Tue, 11 Apr 2023 18:14:40 +0000 91 Cutting down on social media to improve teens and young adults’ body image /science/node/945082 <p>Teens in North America are spending several hours per day on screens, and there’s growing concern over how social media may affect their mental health.</p> Tue, 11 Apr 2023 18:13:17 +0000 91 SciLearn mis en vedette sur Radio-Canada /science/node/945079 <p>Le programme SciLearn du Bureau de l’enseignement des sciences (Office of Science Education) à l’université 91 a été mis en vedette lors du dernier épisode de Les années lumière sur <a href="https://ici.radio-canada.ca/ohdio/premiere/emissions/les-annees-lumiere/segments/reportage/439426/apprendre-etudiants-mcgill-scilearn-programme-neuroscience-cerveau">Radio-Canada</a>:</p> <blockquote> <p>Depuis quelques années, les nouveaux étudiants en science de l'université 91 se voient offrir des stratégies d'apprentissage tirées directement de la recherche en neuroscience.</p></blockquote> Tue, 11 Apr 2023 14:59:35 +0000 91 Major advance in research on melanin, the pigment that colours skin, eyes, and hair /science/node/945073 <p><i>For the first time, scientists produce an organic molecule that mimics melanin’s essential properties</i></p> Mon, 10 Apr 2023 15:08:37 +0000 91 Congratulations to STEMM Diversity@91! /science/node/944997 <p>The results are in for the 2023 <a href="/newsroom/faculty-and-staff/principals-prize">Principal’s Prize for Public Engagement through Media</a> and <a href="https://www.stemmdiversity.com/">STEMM Diversity@91</a> is among the runners-up recognized in the Group category. </p> Fri, 31 Mar 2023 13:06:13 +0000 91 Johanna Nešlehová receives 2023 Krieger-Nelson Prize /science/node/944926 <p>The Canadian Mathematical Society (CMS) has selected <a href="http://www.math.mcgill.ca/neslehova/">Professor Johanna Nešlehová</a> as the 28<sup>th</sup> recipient of the <a href="http://cms.math.ca/news-item/neslehova-to-receive-the-2023-krieger-nelson-prize/">Krieger-Nelson Prize</a>. This award, established in 1995, recognizes outstanding contributions to research by a woman or female-identifying mathematician working in Canada.</p> Tue, 28 Mar 2023 20:10:29 +0000 91 Hundreds Gather for Undergraduate Poster Showcase /science/node/944896 <p><em>91 community comes together to celebrate the research of over 100 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Science and beyond in an annual event organized by the Office of Science Education.</em></p> Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:17:43 +0000 91 School of Religious Studies to host conversations on Science and Faith /science/node/944886 <p>The ongoing dialogue between science and faith will be the focus of two upcoming events hosted by the <a href="/religiousstudies/">School of Religious Studies</a>. Set to take place on March 26th and 27th, the events will include a lecture from <a href="https://www.vaticanobservatory.va/en/who-are-we/staff/br-guy-j-consolmagno-s-j">Brother Guy Consolmagno, S.J.</a>, Director of the <a href="https://www.vaticanobservatory.va/en/">Vatican Observatory</a>, and a panel discussion featuring scholars from diverse academic and faith backgrounds.<br /> <br /></p> Fri, 24 Mar 2023 23:23:47 +0000 91 MSSI announces 2023 Ideas Fund recipients /science/node/944882 <p>The 91 Sustainability Systems Initiative (MSSI) has announced the results of its latest Ideas Fund competition. The Ideas Fund awards seed funding to projects led by 91 researchers, enabling them to pursue high-risk, high-reward projects in sustainability research.</p> Fri, 24 Mar 2023 16:04:24 +0000 91 Story on new Climate Action course featured on 91 homepage /science/node/944834 <p>Worried about the climate crisis? Want to learn about climate change from experts and explore what you can do about it?</p> <p>91 has a course for you.</p> <p>The primary goal of <a href="/ose/courses/fsci-198">FSCI198: Climate Crisis and Climate Actions</a> is to enable students to find enough hope to want to engage with the climate crisis.</p> Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:41:20 +0000 91 Faculty of Science father-son duo help team win coveted intramurals ice hockey championship mug /science/node/944806 <p>When <a href="/geography/sebastien-breau">Professor Sebastien Breau</a> of the Department of Geography (far left) first joined the 50s hockey team back in 2010, Vincent (second from left) was only seven years old. Now a first-year Statistics and Computer Science student at 91, Vincent and his dad helped their team win the coveted intramurals ice hockey championship mug. </p> Tue, 21 Mar 2023 20:46:52 +0000 91 Connecting Students with Researchers through Soup /science/node/944438 <p>Although approaching professors to discuss research opportunities might seem daunting for undergraduate students, there’s an ingredient for success: soup!</p> Fri, 17 Mar 2023 18:01:42 +0000 91 91 Department of Chemistry signs the Green Chemistry Commitment /science/node/944422 <p>The 91 Department of Chemistry has signed the Green Chemistry Commitment (GCC) from <a href="https://www.beyondbenign.org/">Beyond Benign</a>, an organization that develops and disseminates green chemistry and sustainable science educational resources that empower educators, students, and the community at large to practice sustainability through chemistry.</p> Fri, 17 Mar 2023 14:05:52 +0000 91 Professor Marcin Sabok and PhD student Matt Bowen featured in Quanta Magazine /science/node/944344 <p>Last year, Professor <a href="/mathstat/marcin-sabok">Marcin Sabok</a> and PhD student <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/matt-bowen/home">Matt Bowen</a> of the <a href="/mathstat/">Department of Mathematics and Statistics</a> published an important advance in what's known as Ramsey Theory.</p> <p>In a new article for Quanta Magazine, the math writer <a href="https://twitter.com/slomanleila">Dr. Leila Sloman</a> reports on Sabok and Bowen's proof. </p> Thu, 16 Mar 2023 21:23:32 +0000 91 The Science (Students) of Course Change #4 – Universal Design for Learning in Biochemistry /science/node/943663 <p>For instructors and course designers, the optimal way to structure a course is a critical question. With many pedagogical perspectives and a diverse array of student needs, it is challenging to find instructional methods that work for everyone. A framework that seeks to remediate some current challenges in teaching and learning is known as the <a href="https://udlguidelines.cast.org/">Universal Design for Learning (UDL)</a>, an approach to education that emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility.</p> Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:06:54 +0000 91 RI-MUHC and 91 researchers make a breakthrough in understanding brain nanoarchitecture, using computer vision /science/node/943212 <p><strong>A new study published in <em>Current Biology</em> reveals the nanostructure of brain cells at an unprecedented level of resolution.</strong></p> Tue, 07 Mar 2023 20:57:57 +0000 91 In Memoriam: Douglas Grant Stairs /science/node/941110 <p>Dr. Douglas Grant Stairs, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Physics at 91, passed away on February 19, 2023. He was 89 years old. </p> Fri, 24 Feb 2023 18:57:21 +0000 91 The Science (Students) of Course Change #3 – Two-Stage Exams in Organic Chemistry /science/node/940944 <p>Two-stage exams are a form of assessment that bring student collaborative learning into the testing process. While a typical two-stage exam gathers students to re-do the exam as a group after completing it individually, this project investigates the use of “group first” two-stage exams. In this format, piloted in Organic Chemistry I midterm exams, students complete the group component before the individual component, and each part has related, but discrete questions.</p> Thu, 23 Feb 2023 17:20:40 +0000 91 Antoine Labelle awarded 2022 William Moser Memorial Prize /science/node/940757 <p>Antoine Labelle has been named the recipient of the 2022 William Moser Memorial Prize, an award given to 91 students who achieve outstanding results in the <a href="https://www.maa.org/math-competitions/putnam-competition">William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition</a>.</p> Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:50:53 +0000 91 The Science (Students) of Course Change #2 – Research Transmission Through Infographics /science/node/938676 <p>In our fast-paced world, where information is propagated at high speeds from one end of the globe to the other, it is undeniable that rapid communication has rendered information highly diffusible. A problem arises, however, when false or inaccurate information regarding scientific theories and research spreads. For this reason, it is essential to find new and innovative ways to effectively transmit information that is comprehensible to the general public.</p> Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:32:36 +0000 91 Teaching hope during the climate crisis /science/node/936042 <p><em>Forty-five undergraduate students at 91 participated in new Climate Crisis and Climate Actions course</em></p> <p>The COVID-19 pandemic slowed down almost everything. For <a href="/ose/people/diane-dechief">Diane Dechief</a>, PhD, and <a href="/ose/people/diane-dechief">Marcy Slapcoff</a> of the Office of Science Education (OSE), the two leads of the new Faculty of Science course <a href="/ose/courses/fsci-198">FSCI198: Climate Crisis and Climate Actions</a>, there was a positive aspect to the delays.</p> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 15:02:38 +0000 91 Dr. Eve J. Lee awarded 2022 Vainu Bappu Gold Medal /science/node/936041 <p>Professor <a href="https://www.physics.mcgill.ca/~evelee/">Eve Lee</a> of the 91 Department of Physics and the Trottier Space Institute has been awarded the 2022 <a href="https://www.astron-soc.in/vainu_bappu">Vainu Bappu Gold Medal</a> by the <a href="https://www.astron-soc.in/">Astronomical Society of India</a>. This medal is awarded once every two years to honour exceptional contributions to Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics by young scientists anywhere in the world.</p> Fri, 10 Feb 2023 14:52:23 +0000 91 Energy poverty: an overlooked determinant of health and climate resilience in Canada /science/node/935255 <p>Despite Canada being an important energy producer, not all Canadians can access or afford adequate levels of energy services at home to meet their needs, maintain healthy indoor temperatures, and live a decent life—a situation known as energy poverty. Depending on the measure, 6–19% of Canadian households face energy poverty. Health risks associated with energy poverty are documented in countries with milder climates.</p> Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:08:11 +0000 91 CDSI announces 2023 Convergent Research Themes awards /science/node/935254 <p><i>Five multidisciplinary teams to collaborate on computational approaches to complex problems </i></p> Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:01:36 +0000 91 Students: Participate in the How to Change the World bootcamp /science/node/935253 <p>This reading week the Faculty of Science is partnering with How to Change the World to offer 10 <strong>undergraduate</strong> students a unique experiential learning and professional development opportunity.</p> <p>This is a chance for you to tackle real-world sustainability and innovation challenges using the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You will be supported by a world-class global teaching team, and receive guidance from a diverse range of sustainability and innovation experts and local stakeholders from around the world.</p> Wed, 08 Feb 2023 20:42:53 +0000 91 Karine Auclair receives 2023 Clara Benson Award /science/node/924435 <p>Karine Auclair, professor in the Department of Chemistry, is the 2023 recipient for the <a href="https://www.cheminst.ca/awards/csc/benson/">Clara Benson Award</a> from the Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC). </p> <p>Sponsored by the Canadian Council of University Chemistry Chairs (CCUCC), the Clara Benson Award is presented to recognize a woman who has made a distinguished contribution to chemistry while working in Canada.</p> <p>Here is what the CIC had to say about Auclair's work:</p> Fri, 20 Jan 2023 16:06:14 +0000 91 Christian Genest awarded the 2023 CRM-Fields-PIMS Prize /science/node/924029 <p>Congratulations to <a href="/mathstat/christian-genest"><strong>Professor Christian Genest</strong></a> on being awarded the <strong>2023 CRM-Fields-PIMS Prize</strong>! The CRM-Fields-PIMS prize is the premier Canadian award for research achievements in the mathematical sciences.</p> Thu, 19 Jan 2023 20:34:30 +0000 91 91 scholars respond to COP15 Biodiversity Conference /science/node/920739 <p>The 2022 United Nations Biodiversity Conference of the Parties (COP15) was held in Montreal on December 7-19, 2022. The conference’s outcome agreement, known as “30×30” means the protection of 30 per cent of land and oceans by 2030.</p> Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:40:15 +0000 91 Setting Targets for Wetland Restoration to Mitigate Climate Change Effects on Watershed Hydrology /science/node/919226 <p>How much wetland we should protect or restore is not a simple question, such that conservation targets are often set according to political agendas, then standardized globally. However, given their key regulating hydrological functions, wetlands represent nature-based solutions to the anticipated, exacerbating effect of climate change on drought and flood events, which will vary at the regional scale. </p> Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:46:20 +0000 91 Autobiographical event memory and aging: older adults get the gist /science/node/919213 <p>According to new research co-authored by 91's Associate Professor Signy Sheldon (Psychology), older adults’ ability to retrieve episodic autobiographical events, although often viewed through a lens of decline, reveals much about what is preserved and prioritized in cognitive aging.</p> Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:37:06 +0000 91 SciLearn: Helping first-year science students learn better /science/node/905504 <p>Each year, around 1,000 new students begin an undergraduate science degree at 91. For many of them, their first year at university represents a dramatic change from the world of high school or CEGEP.</p> <p>“The workload, the amount of new content you get, and a different style of testing” are three of the challenges Marie Walker recalls from her first semester as a science undergrad.</p> Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:10:59 +0000 91 The three dimensions of a flower /science/node/905495 <p>To better understand the evolution of flowers, a research team in biology from Université de Montréal , the Montréal Botanical Garden, and 91 (Daniel Schoen, Biology) have succeeded in using photogrammetry to quickly and precisely build, in three dimensions, a model of a flower from two-dimensional images.</p> <p>Photogrammetry is commonly used by geographers to reconstruct the topography of a landscape. However, this is the first time that scientists have used the technique to design 3D models of flowers in order to better study them.</p> Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:08:58 +0000 91 ‘Cities are becoming the fulcrum for how we manage biodiversity’ /science/node/903581 <p>As Montreal prepares to host UN Biodiversity Conference, 91 professor Andrew Gonzalez discusses how cities can help protect nature and human health.</p> <p>Global urban populations are projected to increase to nearly five billion by 2030. This ever-expanding urbanization threatens our world’s plant and animal biodiversity and degrades ecosystems through the loss of habitat, biomass and carbon storage. As noted during the recent COP27 climate conference, biodiversity loss is as critical to our planet’s health as the climate crisis.</p> Tue, 06 Dec 2022 17:23:12 +0000 91 Freshwater biodiversity loss has been out of sight, out of mind /science/node/903580 <p>A silent mass extinction is occurring in lakes, rivers and wetlands. Freshwater species are rapidly disappearing in North America and throughout the world. Conservation-minded people might be unaware of this, because of the media’s longstanding focus on land-based ecosystems and charismatic animals.</p> Tue, 06 Dec 2022 17:19:40 +0000 91 Pursuing an Arctic research dream /science/node/903579 <p>Lizz Webb, a PhD student in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences here at 91, spent a week in Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago barely 1,000 kilometres from the North Pole, as part of her studies.</p> Tue, 06 Dec 2022 17:14:04 +0000 91 Join visiting Artist in Residence Jan van Esch for two talks on sustainability /science/node/901838 <p><strong>TUESDAY November 22. GHABH - The poison in the gift, Part I: Giving and receiving - considering commercial determinants of health.</strong></p> <p>How do the actions of not-for-profit and commercial second-hand clothing recycling determine relations within and between countries? How does the promotional imagery used by these companies and their actions reinstate cliché images of the other and have an impact the (mental) health through the psychological powerplay between the giver and receiver. </p> Thu, 17 Nov 2022 19:54:27 +0000 91 Combining Art with Science /science/node/901798 <p>Using real geochemical data from the archaeological site of Itzan, Guatemala, and computer-generated artwork, PhD candidate Benjamin Keenan (Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences) has produced a video that brings the ancient Mayan civilization to life. Funded by a FRQ DIALOGUE grant (the first for the Faculty of Science), his video has been shown at over 10 exhibitions and conferences, both locally and internationally. <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/visualizing-the-ancient-maya-over-thousands-of-years/">Learn more about Benjamin's project</a>.</p> Tue, 15 Nov 2022 19:40:58 +0000 91 What's it like to be a Biology student at 91? /science/node/891920 <p>Join five current Biology students as they share their stories of finding their place and pursuing diverse paths within the discipline in this new video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j07Z5SHc2Ik">A Glimpse Into Biology at 91</a>. To learn more about the inspiration for this video, read <a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/video-marks-launch-of-department-of-biology-outreach-campaign/">Video marks launch of Department of Biology outreach campaign</a>.</p> Fri, 14 Oct 2022 19:07:44 +0000 91 Science Outreach is hiring! /science/node/885047 <p>We're looking for a Science Outreach Educator to join our team. They will assist the Faculty’s Science Outreach unit in promoting and enhancing the visibility of outreach, provide training opportunities to 91 students and staff using evidence-based best practices and assist with the communications and evaluation components of the Outreach program. <a href="https://mcgill.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/91_Careers/job/91-College-2001/Science-Outreach-Educator_JR0000031283">Find out more</a>.</p> Thu, 06 Oct 2022 14:18:03 +0000 91 Alfonso Mucci elected Fellow of the American Geophysical Union /science/node/877641 <p><a href="/eps/mucci">Alfonso Mucci</a>, Emeritus Professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, has been elected an American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fellow. He joins 53 other individuals in the 2022 Class of Fellows. AGU, a nonprofit organization that supports 130,000 enthusiasts to experts worldwide in Earth and space sciences, annually recognizes a select number of individuals as part of its Honours and Recognition program. Since 1962, the AGU Fellows Committee has selected less than 0.1% of members as new Fellows.</p> Thu, 29 Sep 2022 12:53:11 +0000 91 Undergraduate students celebrated for summer research /science/node/848270 <p>On August 10, thirty or so undergraduate students gathered in Leacock 232 to share their experiences as researchers in the Faculty of Science over the summer.</p> Wed, 07 Sep 2022 17:24:00 +0000 91 The Redpath Museum moves outdoors this summer /science/node/824590 <p>Enjoy the beautiful summer weather and join the <a href="http://www.mcgill.ca/redpath">Redpath Museum</a> outdoors to see and touch specimens from their natural history and world cultures collections. Fossils, skulls, minerals, ancient pottery... you never know what you'll find!</p> <p><em><strong>Every Wednesday and Thursday through August 18th: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Different themes each day. Cancelled if it rains. </strong></em></p> <p>Sherbrooke St. West and 91 College, east side, inside the Roddick Gates. Look for the white pop-up awning.</p> Thu, 14 Jul 2022 13:25:45 +0000 91 Outreach skills and entrepreneurship /science/node/824269 <p>Wondering how the skills you develop doing science outreach can help with your future endeavours? Read about Dr. Allie Huerta (PhD in Chemistry and former star member of the <a href="/chemistry/outreach#:~:text=The%20Chemistry%20Outreach%20Group%20works,exciting%20chemical%20and%20physical%20reactions.">Chemistry Outreach Group</a>) and her new startup, <a href="https://aimcolours.com/">AIM Colours</a> — combining <a href="/channels/article/combining-cosmetics-and-technology">cosmetics and technology</a>.</p> Wed, 01 Jun 2022 17:31:46 +0000 91 Faculty of Science Excellence Award winners announced /science/node/824268 <h2><b>2022 award winners</b></h2> <p><em>The Faculty of Science Excellence Awards recognize outstanding performance and contributions made by members of the Faculty’s administrative and support staff classified in four categories: Academic Associate, Clerical, Management, and Technical. The committee, comprised of staff members from each department, received nominations for three of these categories. </em></p> Fri, 27 May 2022 19:08:57 +0000 91 Gabriel Venne wins Leo Yaffe Award /science/node/824258 <p>The recipient of the <a href="/science/staff/teaching-prizes">Leo Yaffe Award</a> for 2022 is <a href="/anatomy/gabriel-venne">Gabriel Venne</a>, assistant professor in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology. The award is given each year to recognize a faculty member for superior teaching at the undergraduate level in the Faculty of Science.</p> Wed, 25 May 2022 17:05:11 +0000 91 Making data science accessible to all /science/node/823423 <p><i>The Faculty of Science’s new </i><a href="/cdsi/"><i>Computational and Data Systems Initiative</i></a><i> will help researchers unlock the power of data-intensive research methods</i></p> <p>If you follow science news, you will almost certainly have encountered the term ‘modelling’. From understanding climate change, to predicting the course of a pandemic, to developing the pharmaceuticals to fight one, scientists seem to have a ‘model’ for everything. But have you ever wondered just what the term means and how scientists go about creating models?</p> Fri, 29 Apr 2022 13:24:06 +0000 91 Science students share their passion with school students across Québec /science/node/822675 <p>91 students participated for the first time this year in <a href="https://eer.qc.ca/">École en réseau</a> and <a href="https://coeurdessciences.uqam.ca/">Cœur des sciences</a>, two programs that provide programming for elementary and secondary school students across Quebec.  Read about  91 students Jeremy Dawkins and Kirsten Crandall's engaging collaborations with  École en réseau and Cœur des sciences in 91 dans la ville's article <a href="/newsroom/fr/article/mcgill-dans-la-ville/des-etudiants-en-sciences-partagent-leur-passion-avec-des-eleves-de-partout-a&lt;/body&gt;&lt;/html&gt;"></a></p> Tue, 22 Mar 2022 15:39:56 +0000 91 91 Chemistry Outreach Group founders describe the group's work in new tribute /science/node/821268 <p>Founding members of the award-winning 91 Chemistry Outreach program have documented the inception and work of the group in <a href="https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/full/10.1139/cjc-2021-0182"><em>Beyond exploding balloons- bringing the science of chemistry to the public</em></a>, a new piece in the Canadian Journal of Chemistry.<br /> <br /></p> Wed, 09 Mar 2022 19:08:16 +0000 91 McCall MacBain Scholarships set to open to international applicants /science/node/800593 <h3><u>Join the first global cohort of McCall MacBain Scholars!</u></h3> <p>Are you interested in mentorship, leadership skills development, and full funding to start a graduate degree?</p> Tue, 01 Feb 2022 18:27:53 +0000 91 Get to know a scientist: Herpetologist Jessica Ford /science/node/795884 <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRkZ5KfdaGw&amp;t=1s">Watch</a> herpetologist Jessica Ford explain the work she does with the easily overlooked, yet massively important tadpoles. </p> Fri, 28 Jan 2022 14:47:38 +0000 91 Office of Science Outreach launches online inquiry-based training /science/node/794763 <p>The <a href="/science/outreach">Office of Science Outreach</a> is excited to take its inquiry-based theory training completely online and asynchronous. <i>Intro to 91 Science Outreach and Inquiry-Based Learning</i> is now available on <i>myCourses</i>, 91’s learning platform, for anyone interested in participating in the training. The Office created this course specifically to meet the needs of 91 outreach students but it is available to all students, faculty, and staff across the University and in other institutions.</p> Thu, 27 Jan 2022 16:45:41 +0000 91 Promoting diversity in science /science/node/787449 <p><a href="https://www.stemmdiversity.com/">STEMM Diversity @ 91</a> co-founders Jessica Ford and Charles Xu detail their paths as scientists and what led them to come together to form STEMM Diversity @ 91 in the new article <a href="/channels/article/promoting-diversity-science">Promoting diversity in science</a>.</p> Fri, 21 Jan 2022 13:21:14 +0000 91 91 researchers tackle rare disease first identified in Quebec /science/node/773092 <p>Researchers at 91 have made an important step forward in understanding the cause of a rare neurodegenerative disease noted for its occurrence in the Charlevoix and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean regions of Quebec.</p> <p>Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is a genetic condition that affects coordination and balance from early childhood. Most ARSACS patients require a wheelchair by the time they reach their 30s or 40s. There is no cure and current treatments provide only limited symptomatic relief.</p> Wed, 22 Dec 2021 15:28:54 +0000 91 Real-time alert system heralds new era in fast radio burst research /science/node/771650 <p>91 scientists have developed a new system for sharing the enormous amount of data being generated by the CHIME radio telescope in its search for fast radio bursts (FRBs), the puzzling extragalactic phenomenon that is one of the hottest topics in modern-day astronomy.</p> Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:10:21 +0000 91 91 tackles systemic underrepresentation /science/node/769777 <p>Improving representation is one of the key goals behind 91’s current drive to recruit a greater number of Black faculty members. The Faculty of Science is proud to be a part of this effort, with applications now open for tenure-track positions in the <a href="https://mcgill.ca/x/JNe">School of Computer Science</a> and the <a href="https://mcgill.ca/x/JNn">Department of Geography</a>.</p> Thu, 04 Nov 2021 19:57:24 +0000 91 Learn about unEarth , one of 91's impact200 finalists /science/node/763762 <p>unEarth is one of the <a href="https://200.mcgill.ca/impact200-bicentennial-student-sustainability-challenge/">impact200 Bicentennial Student Sustainability Challenge </a>finalists' and their platform and supplemental educator's manual are designed to reach out and teach youth about sustainability through environmental systems thinking.</p> Thu, 21 Oct 2021 16:01:56 +0000 91 Stress affects our motivation – but not necessarily our ability – to do difficult tasks /science/node/737872 <p>Stress increases people’s tendency to avoid cognitively demanding tasks, without necessarily altering their ability to perform those tasks, according to new research from 91.</p> <p>“Generally speaking, people are demand-averse,” says <a href="/psychology/ross-otto">Ross Otto</a>, an assistant professor of psychology at 91 and the senior author of a recent paper in <em>Psychological Science</em>. “[Our study showed] stress increases that aversion.”</p> Fri, 24 Sep 2021 19:27:50 +0000 91 STEMM Diversity publishes paper and blog post /science/node/737550 <p><a href="https://www.stemmdiversity.com/">STEMM Diversity </a>group members have recently published a blog post with Cell Mentor, and a paper in Trends in Ecology.</p> Fri, 24 Sep 2021 14:46:35 +0000 91 Science literacy for everyone: Science Literacy Week and Chemistry Walk and Talk /science/node/725214 <p><a href="http://www.scienceliteracy.ca/">Science Literacy week</a> is happening across Canada from September 20th to September 26th, and there many activities to participate in right in Montreal. For the seventh consecutive year, 91 Library is planning a <a href="http://libraryguides.mcgill.ca/science-literacy">range of activities</a>.</p> Wed, 15 Sep 2021 20:59:26 +0000 91 Climate change artist-in-residence to curate bicentennial art show /science/node/703204 <p><a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/meet-milton-riano-mcgills-first-climate-change-artist-in-residence/">Milton Riaño</a>, 91’s Climate Change Artist-in-Residence, will curate the Faculty of Science’s <a href="/science/art200">Bicentennial Science/Art Exposition</a>, billed as a “celebration of science in all its forms”.</p> <p>The art show organizers are calling on all members of the 91 community to submit works in any medium, expressing what science means to them.</p> <p>The deadline for submissions is <strong>October 31, 2021</strong>.</p> Mon, 30 Aug 2021 17:51:55 +0000 91 CRISPR for kids /science/node/691240 <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4scDZk4Kwcw"><strong>What is CRISPR?</strong></a> Science writer and masters student Ada McVean explains CRISPR for kids in a TikTok as part of an internship with 91's Office of Science Outreach for the NSERC PROMOTE program! Ada is currently doing her masters in the <a href="https://damha-group.mcgill.ca/index.html">Damha Research Group</a> at 91 making anti-CRISPR oligonucleotides. </p> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4scDZk4Kwcw">CRISPR for kids </a></div> Thu, 29 Jul 2021 16:24:39 +0000 91 Jeffrey McKenzie elected Fellow of the Geological Society of America /science/node/691140 <p><a href="/eps/mckenzie">Jeffrey McKenzie</a>, Chair of 91's Department of Earth &amp; Planetary Sciences, has been elected a Fellow of the Geological Society of America (GSA). In its citation, the GSA noted:</p> Wed, 14 Jul 2021 19:30:59 +0000 91 Virtual Eurêka Festival launches /science/node/691128 <p>The <a href="https://archipelvirtuel.festivaleureka.ca/">2021 Eurêka Festival</a> launched on June 30th, 2021, and 91 Outreach is participating! L'Archipel Virtuel is the first digital edition of the festival.</p> Tue, 06 Jul 2021 13:28:12 +0000 91 Principal's Prize for Public Engagement through Media: BrainReach is runner-up /science/node/691103 <p>The 2021 Principal's Prize for Public Engagement through Media winners and runners-up were named in April, including Faculty of Science outreach group BrainReach. </p> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/challenging-times-mcgill-researchers-step-up-to-help/">Read more here</a></div> Mon, 05 Jul 2021 14:05:10 +0000 91 Family Science Day continues 91’s community outreach tradition /science/node/691102 <p>91's science outreach groups celebrated 91's Bicentennial with an all day event that drew in over 200 participants to 16 activities and talks. </p> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/family-science-day-continues-mcgills-community-outreach-tradition-into-its-third-century/">Read more here</a></div> Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:51:41 +0000 91 Celebrating Science Odyssey with Some SMOrES /science/node/691033 <p>The SMORES (Students at 91 Outreach in Earth Sciences) club joined in on the 2021 Science odyssey campaign with a series of exciting one hour online workshops for kids, captivating over 65 participants. </p> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://blogs.mcgill.ca/eps/2021/06/16/celebrating-science-odyssey-with-some-smores/">Read more</a></div> Tue, 22 Jun 2021 15:10:31 +0000 91 Faculty of Science Excellence Award winners announced /science/node/690891 <p>The <a href="/science/staff/staff-prizes">Faculty of Science Excellence Awards</a> recognize outstanding performance and contributions made by members of the Faculty’s administrative and support staff.</p> <h3><b>2021 award winners</b></h3> <h5><b><u>Jean-Marc Gauthier, Director of Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories </u></b><b><u>&amp; Building Director, Chemistry.</u></b><br /> <b>“A” class recipient (Academic Associate) </b></h5> <p>This year’s winner in the inaugural Academic Associate category is <b>Jean-Marc Gauthier</b>, from the Department of Chemistry.</p> Mon, 31 May 2021 18:25:35 +0000 91 Rustum Choksi wins Leo Yaffe Award /science/node/690890 <p>The <a href="/science/staff/teaching-prizes">Leo Yaffe Award</a> is given each year to recognize a faculty member for superior teaching at the undergraduate level in the Faculty of Science.</p> <p>The recipient for 2021 is <a href="/mathstat/rustum-choksi">Dr. Rustum Choksi</a> from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, an outstanding educator, who communicates the beauty and relevance of mathematics to students from all backgrounds.</p> Mon, 31 May 2021 18:22:07 +0000 91 Study of promising photovoltaic material leads to discovery of a new state of matter /science/node/690870 <p>Researchers at 91 have gained new insight into the workings of perovskites, a semiconductor material that shows great promise for making high-efficiency, low-cost solar cells and a range of other optical and electronic devices.</p> Wed, 26 May 2021 15:40:34 +0000 91 Hidden magma pools pose volcanic eruption risks we can’t yet detect /science/node/690780 <p>New research co-authored by 91 Earth and Planetary Science professor <a href="/eps/stix">John Stix</a> challenges conventional views about scientists' ability to reliably predict volcanic eruptions.</p> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://www.geosociety.org/GSA/News/pr/2021/21-23.aspx">Read more</a></div> Tue, 11 May 2021 18:59:27 +0000 91 Record numbers connect, learn and have fun at 91 Physics Hackathon /science/node/690753 <p>The 5th edition of 91 Physics Hackathon brought together a record breaking number of participants in this 2020 online event. </p> <div class="bl-tpl"> <div class="bl-tpl"><a class="button--outline" href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/record-numbers-connect-learn-and-have-fun-at-mcgill-physics-hackathon/">Read more</a></div> </div> Wed, 05 May 2021 18:15:09 +0000 91 Bicentennial Family Science Day /science/node/690645 <p>We're celebrating <a href="https://www.science24heures.com/en/">24h de science</a> and <a href="https://200.mcgill.ca/">91's Bicentennial</a> as we move into another century of community outreach! The Science Outreach groups have all kinds of fun in store in this Faculty of Science Signature Event. Join in the celebration! For more details, please visit the full schedule found <a href="/science/channels/event/bicentennial-family-science-day-complete-schedule-330483">here</a>. </p> Tue, 20 Apr 2021 19:48:13 +0000 91 Family Science Day: What is neuroscience? History of neuroscience at 91 /science/node/690494 <p>As part of 91’s <a href="https://200.mcgill.ca/">Bicentennial</a> and <a href="https://www.science24heures.com/en/">24h de science</a>, join <a href="https://www.brainreach.ca/home-en.html">BrainReach</a> on a virtual tour of the brain and its fascinating neurons followed by a brief history of neuroscience. Young minds will discover how scientists at 91 set on a journey to understand the human brain.</p> <p> </p> <p>Topic: What is neuroscience? History of neuroscience at 91</p> <p>Time: May 8, 2021 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)</p> <p> </p> <p>Join Zoom Meeting</p> Tue, 06 Apr 2021 17:14:49 +0000 91 Greater need to talk about equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM /science/node/676076 <p>| ANALYSIS |</p> <p><i><strong>Lucia Wang</strong>, master’s student in Pharmacology and Therapeutics at 91, shares her perspective on the role of equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM education.</i></p> Mon, 22 Feb 2021 19:47:35 +0000 91 Student art exhibition to highlight 91 Bicentennial /science/node/640943 <p>The Faculty of Science is celebrating 91’s 200<sup>th</sup> anniversary with a student art exhibition on the theme of “Science!”. 91 students at all levels and all faculties are invited to submit works in any medium, expressing what science means to them.</p> <p>Faculty of Science bicentennial committee member, Torsten Bernhard, says the aim of the exhibition is to celebrate science in all its forms.</p> Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:45:09 +0000 91 Network science study of Montreal bilinguals could deepen understanding of real-world language use /science/node/627784 <p>Psychology researchers at 91 have used network science – a mathematical technique for revealing connections and patterns – to gain novel insights into Montrealers’ experience of using French and English.</p> <p>The unique approach has brought to light subtle differences as to which social settings Montreal bilinguals discuss certain topics and whether they use French, English or both languages to discuss those topics.</p> Thu, 08 Oct 2020 17:57:37 +0000 91 A more sustainable way to make DNA-based medications /science/node/627528 <p>Scientists at 91 have developed a solvent-free method for making oligonucleotides, short strands of DNA of growing significance in research and the pharmaceutical industry.</p> Mon, 24 Aug 2020 17:40:16 +0000 91 Cause-and-effect approach could help machines become better learners /science/node/627460 <p>For human beings, the ability to generalize – to extract broad principles from our experiences of the world and use these principles to help us make decisions in new situations – is an essential skill for navigating everyday life. But for those working in the field of artificial intelligence, getting machines to generalize in this way has been a notoriously difficult challenge.</p> Wed, 15 Jul 2020 19:38:11 +0000 91 Innovative simulations and analysis accelerate search for COVID-19 treatment /science/node/627387 <p>91 researchers are using cutting-edge computer simulations and analytical techniques to identify and validate promising compounds in the search for a treatment for COVID-19.</p> <p><a href="/chemistry/faculty/nicolas-moitessier">Nicolas Moitessier</a>, a professor in the Department of Chemistry, is using computer simulation software that he has developed over the past 15 years to predict the properties of molecules that have yet to be made.</p> Tue, 23 Jun 2020 13:50:52 +0000 91 91-made instrument reveals previously unseen quantum mechanical behaviour /science/node/627385 <p>In a step forward for the field of quantum mechanics, 91 researchers have achieved a breakthrough in sensitive measurements of the wave-like properties of electrons.</p> Mon, 22 Jun 2020 14:05:22 +0000 91 Faculty of Science – Statement on racism and injustice /science/node/627342 <p>The events of the past weeks have brought into sharp focus, yet again, the systemic racism and pervasive inequalities that are so deeply entrenched in our societies.</p> <p>The magnitude of the worldwide public response reflects pain in the face of violence, anger and frustration in the face of persistent injustice, and recognition of the urgent and overdue need for change.</p> Thu, 11 Jun 2020 15:28:31 +0000 91 Debbie Moskowitz wins Gold Medal Award for Distinguished Lifetime Contributions to Canadian Psychology /science/node/627317 <p><a href="/psychology/debbie-s-moskowitz">Debbie Moskowitz</a> of 91 is the 2020 recipient of the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) Gold Medal Award for Distinguished Lifetime Contributions to Canadian Psychology. This award is presented to recognize CPA Members or Fellows who have given exceptional and enduring lifetime contributions to Canadian Psychology during their career.</p> Wed, 03 Jun 2020 15:25:43 +0000 91 Smash hit food chemistry course to run in summer 2020 /science/node/627214 <p>For the first time ever, 91 will run a summer-semester version of <a href="/study/2019-2020/courses/chem-181">CHEM 181</a>, its enormously popular course on the chemistry of food.</p> <p>Enrolments are now open for a June 2020 edition of the course that has been taken by tens of thousands of students over its nearly 40-year history.</p> <p><strong>Making sense of food</strong></p> Mon, 27 Apr 2020 19:48:13 +0000 91 Potential energy saving solution for making vital chemicals /science/node/627138 <p>Researchers at 91 have discovered a new, energy-efficient way to make key ingredients for the production of pharmaceuticals, polymers and fine chemicals.</p> Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:49:43 +0000 91 91's Chemistry Outreach Group wins Principal's Prize /science/node/626796 <p>The <a href="/chemistry/department/outreach">Chemistry Outreach Group</a> has taken home the Principal’s Prize for Public Engagement through Media, winning the inaugural 'Collaboration' category for groups of undergraduate or graduate students that engage with the external community and/or the media.</p> <p>The Prize recognizes the vital role outreach groups play in supporting the University’s commitment to being of service to society and engaging with the broader community.</p> Fri, 13 Mar 2020 14:55:55 +0000 91 New technique for measuring greenhouse gas production from thawing permafrost /science/node/626792 <p>A research team led by 91 geochemist <a href="/eps/douglas">Peter Douglas</a> has used a new method for measuring the rate at which methane is produced by microbes breaking down thawing permafrost. The breakthrough could lead to an improvement in our ability to predict future releases of the potent greenhouse gas as long‑frozen layers of soil begin to thaw.</p> Wed, 11 Mar 2020 13:20:49 +0000 91 Making straws that don’t suck for the environment /science/node/626750 <p>With the federal ban of single-use plastics planned for this year, the demand for alternatives to everyday plastic products, such as straws, is set to increase. <a href="https://treematech.com/">TreeMaTech</a>, a startup company born through a collaboration between chemistry professors from 91 and Lakehead University, is betting on cellulose for making drinking straws that don’t suck for the environment.</p> <p><a href="https://reporter.mcgill.ca/making-straws-that-dont-suck-for-the-environment/">› Read more</a></p> Mon, 02 Mar 2020 20:13:08 +0000 91 The Faculty of Science celebrates its generous donors /science/node/626294 <p>In November this year, around 400 people gathered at the 91 Faculty Club for the Faculty of Science’s annual scholarship reception. The evening’s celebration was an opportunity for donors to the Faculty to meet the students who have benefitted from their generous support.</p> <h3>Confidence-building opportunities</h3> <p>Addressing the guests, Joëlle Begin Miolan, recipient of a 91 Alumni &amp; Friends Undergraduate Research Award, described the opportunity to do research as a defining moment for her self-belief as an undergraduate physics student.</p> Thu, 21 Nov 2019 19:39:46 +0000 91 Undergraduate research celebrated /science/node/625728 <p>Around 75 students joined faculty and staff from the Faculty of Science at Thomson House last week to celebrate their experience as undergraduate researchers over the summer.</p> <p>In his welcoming remarks, Bruce Lennox, Dean of the Faculty of Science, acknowledged the students’ contributions in 91’s “intense research environments”.</p> Thu, 22 Aug 2019 14:49:50 +0000 91 The passing of Prof. Laurie Hendren /science/node/625482 <p>Colleagues,</p> <p>It is with great sadness that I share with members of the Faculty and entire University community news of Professor Laurie Hendren’s passing, on May 27, 2019.</p> <p>As a member of the School of Computer Science, Laurie was an exceptional teacher, researcher, colleague, and above all, friend.</p> Mon, 27 May 2019 21:43:00 +0000 91 ComSciConCAN 2019 Communicating Science Workshop /science/node/625152 <p>ComSciConCAN is Canada’s first national science communication workshop for current or recently-graduated graduate students. This unique professional development program aims to help the next generation of leaders in STEM fields develop the skills needed to communicate their research and ideas to their peers, experts in other fields, policy makers, and the general public.</p> Mon, 01 Apr 2019 18:51:19 +0000 91 Textiles from trees: what's old is new again /science/node/624861 <p>Two 91 chemistry professors, <a href="/chemistry/faculty/theo-van-de-ven">Theo van de Ven</a> and <a href="/chemistry/faculty/jean-philip-lumb">Jean-Philip Lumb</a>, have developed a new way to make textiles from cellulose, the basic building block of plants, in a breakthrough that has the potential to revitalize Canada’s forestry industry.</p> Mon, 11 Feb 2019 14:00:00 +0000 91 Hairy nanotechnology provides green anti-scaling solution /science/node/623787 <p>A new type of cellulose nanoparticle, invented by 91 researchers, is at the heart of a more effective and less environmentally damaging solution to one of the biggest challenges facing water-based industries: preventing the buildup of scale.</p> Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:44:02 +0000 91 Using DNA technology to track marine life /science/node/623750 <p>91 marine ecologist <a href="http://jennsunday.weebly.com/">Jennifer Sunday</a> is bringing cutting-edge DNA analysis to the formidable task of tracking ocean species along Canada’s Pacific coast.</p> Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:27:50 +0000 91 New cities may make millions more vulnerable to climate change /science/node/623497 <p>A forthcoming study of over a hundred new cities being built around the world suggests developers and planning authorities are doing very little to make their projects resilient to climate change. On the contrary, a boom in new city projects in coastal areas – including some on reclaimed land in the sea – appears to fly in the face of the danger of rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events.</p> Mon, 10 Sep 2018 12:51:14 +0000 91 Better plastic recycling with enzymes /science/node/623096 <p>91 chemistry professors <a href="/chemistry/faculty/auclair">Karine Auclair</a> and <a href="/chemistry/faculty/tomislav-friscic">Tomislav Friščić</a> are following a promising lead on using enzymes to recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the world’s most widely used plastics.</p> Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:07:49 +0000 91 Greener alternative to lithium-ion batteries /science/node/623068 <p>The runaway popularity of personal electronic devices has led to a huge global demand for compact yet powerful rechargeable batteries. Since hitting the market in the 1990s, lithium-ion technology has taken the lead in meeting this need.</p> <p>But concerns over the relative scarcity of lithium and the toxicity of other common lithium-ion battery ingredients such as cobalt are driving the search for an alternative. Sodium, around 1000 times more abundant than lithium, could be the answer.</p> Mon, 27 Aug 2018 18:36:21 +0000 91 Potential huge energy savings through nanocatalysts for nitrogen fixation /science/node/623048 <p>A fundamental component of protein, nitrogen is the most common pure element on Earth, making up nearly 80 percent of our atmosphere. Yet despite its abundance, atmospheric nitrogen cannot enter the food chain without first being converted into a form that can be used by plants.</p> Mon, 20 Aug 2018 15:32:03 +0000 91 Green polymers inspired by biology /science/node/621641 <p>91 chemistry professor <a href="/chemistry/faculty/matthew-j-harrington">Matthew Harrington</a> is aiming to develop a renewable alternative to petrochemical plastics by mimicking the astonishing chemistry of the velvet worm – a creature that has made a name for itself through its projectile slime.</p> <p>Inhabiting the forest floors of Australia and South America, velvet worms catch their prey by shooting out a jet of liquid that rapidly thickens to a sticky gel before hardening into polymer fibres comparable in stiffness to nylon.</p> Thu, 02 Aug 2018 15:00:27 +0000 91 Artists Among Us /science/node/621300 <h2>Gault Nature Reserve special edition</h2> <h3>Calling all scientist-artists:</h3> <p>Does the <strong>FOREST</strong> inspire you? In honour of the 60th anniversary of the Gault Nature Reserve in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a special edition of the Artists Among Us art exhibition will take place during the months of July and August 2018 at the Alice Johannsen Pavilion of the Reserve.</p> <p>Artists Among Us is a 91 event in which students, faculty, staff, alumni and retirees display their artwork, reminding the campus community how many of our members have parallel creative pursuits.</p> Mon, 26 Mar 2018 19:47:03 +0000 91 June 2016 Convocation Kudos and Prizes /science/node/331143 <p>On behalf of the Faculty of Science and on the occasion of the recent Science Convocation ceremonies (June 6, 2016), Dean of Science Bruce Lennox offers <strong>congratulations to all graduating students</strong>, who received B.Sc., B.A. &amp; Sc., Diploma, M.Sc., or Ph.D. degrees. In addition, the Faculty of Science is very proud to recognize the recipients of the Faculty’s and University’s most prestigious awards. These include:</p> Thu, 16 Jun 2016 21:39:47 +0000 91 Convocation congratulations, and Principal’s Prizes for Excellence in Teaching /science/node/216594 <p>On behalf of the Faculty of Science and on the occasion of Science Convocation ceremonies (November 10, 2015), Dean of Science Bruce Lennox offers <strong>congratulations to all graduating students</strong>, from B.Sc. to Ph.D., and also to the following prizewinners.</p> Mon, 09 Nov 2015 21:01:45 +0000 91 Prof. Brigitte Vachon, YWCA Woman of Distinction Award /science/node/190754 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Professor Brigitte Vachon</strong> in the Department of Physics, who was awarded a <strong>Woman of Distinction Award</strong> yesterday from the YWCA of Montreal, in the Science and Technology Category. The Women of Distinction Awards highlight the accomplishments, commitment, determination and leadership of thirteen women who have helped generate positive and lasting change in their community.</p> Wed, 30 Sep 2015 20:18:33 +0000 91 Faculty of Science members of the Royal Society of Canada's College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists /science/node/184379 <p>Prof. Bruce Lennox, Dean of Science, congratulates Professors <strong>Mathieu Blanchette</strong> (School of Computer Science), <strong>Matt Dobbs (</strong>Department of Physics), and <strong>Hans Larsson</strong> (Redpath Museum) from the Faculty of Science. They are three of forty-eight <strong>new members of The Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists</strong>.</p> Tue, 22 Sep 2015 18:14:02 +0000 91 2015 Royal Society of Canada Fellows and Prizewinner from the Faculty of Science /science/node/179398 <p>Dr. Bruce Lennox, Dean of Science, extends congratulations to Professors <strong>Robert Brandenberger</strong> (Physics), <strong>Christian Genest</strong> (Mathematics and Statistics), and <strong>Catherine Potvin</strong> (Biology) on being named <strong>Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada</strong>. Election to fellowship in the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) is the highest distinction for scientists, artists, and scholars in Canada.</p> Tue, 15 Sep 2015 22:20:18 +0000 91 New B.Sc. Global Designation /science/node/168867 <p>The Faculty of Science <a href="/science/student/bsc-global">B.Sc. Global Designation</a> recognizes Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) students who have gone beyond a typical B.Sc. experience and broadened their horizons by</p> <ul> <li>participating in language classes,</li> <li>performing independent research, and</li> <li>including the "real-world" in their program: field studies, a science internship, exchange or independent study away, or global coursework.</li> </ul> <p> Wed, 02 Sep 2015 19:00:31 +0000 91 Convocation congratulations /science/node/84304 <p>On behalf of the Faculty of Science and on the occasion of Science Convocation ceremonies (June 2, 2015), Dean of Science Martin Grant offer <strong>congratulations to all graduating students</strong>, from bachelor's to doctoral, and also to the following prizewinners.</p> <p> Tue, 02 Jun 2015 12:00:00 +0000 91 New Dean of Science /science/node/77316 <p>Congratulations to Professor Bruce Lennox who will become the new Dean of the Faculty of Science, effective July 1, 2015. He is currently Tomlinson Professor of Chemistry, a former chair of the Department of Chemistry, and a leading nanoscientist. He will succeed Professor Martin Grant, who is finishing his second term as Dean of Science. <strong><a href="/newsroom/channels/news/two-new-deans-mcgill-252439">More information</a>.</strong></p> Fri, 22 May 2015 20:41:48 +0000 91 Prof. Victoria Kaspi, 2015 Killam Prize for the Natural Sciences /science/node/51150 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Professor Victoria Kaspi</strong> in the Department of Physics, who was awarded the <strong>Killam Prize</strong> today. Valued at $100,000, this is one of Canada’s most prestigious awards for academic-career achievement. Vicky Kaspi is a world-renowned astrophysicist known for her cutting-edge work on neutron stars and pulsars.</p> Wed, 15 Apr 2015 01:45:31 +0000 91 Acting on climate change: Solutions from scholars /science/node/34722 <p>Professor Catherine Potvin, a Canada Research Chair in Climate Change Mitigation and Tropical Forests, has convened colleagues from 30 Canadian universities to join her in a collective initiative called <em>Sustainable Canada Dialogues.</em> The resulting group, that mobilizes over 60 researchers from every province, has built a consensus around a plan of sustainability solutions to help Canada successfully achieve transition to a low-carbon society. Potvin spoke with the <em>91 Reporter</em> about what government officials and ordinary citizens can do to mitigate climate change.</p> Thu, 12 Mar 2015 18:17:00 +0000 91 Mathematica software now free for students too /science/node/25175 <p><a href="http://www.wolfram.com/mathematica/">Mathematica</a>, from Wolfram Research, is a powerful computational software used for mathematical modeling and data visualization.  91 IT Services has been providing Mathematica to faculty and staff, and in computer labs across the University for the past few years.  Now it is also available to students via the 91 Software site (<a href="/software/">www.mcgill.ca/software</a>).</p> Mon, 09 Feb 2015 19:30:12 +0000 91 MS Office 365 ProPlus now available for faculty, staff, and students /science/node/21022 <p>91 <strong>faculty and staff</strong> members now have FREE access to Office 365 ProPlus on <em>personal devices</em>, including computers (PCs and Macs),  tablets (iPad and Windows), and smartphones (iPhone, Android, and Windows). This includes the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other Office apps. For faculty and staff, this service replaces the Office portion of the Microsoft Work at Home program<strong>. Students </strong>already (and still!) have free access to Office 365 ProPlus.</p> Fri, 23 Jan 2015 20:49:37 +0000 91 Prof. Charles Gale, Humboldt Research Award /science/node/11471 <p>Congratulations to Dr. <strong>Charles Gale,</strong> James 91 Professor in the Department of Physics, for winning a <strong>Humboldt Research Award</strong>!</p> <p>Valued at 60,000 EUR, this award is granted by Germany's Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung/Foundation in recognition of a researcher's entire achievements to date. The award recognizes scholars whose fundamental discoveries, new theories, or insights have had a significant impact on their own discipline and who are expected to continue producing cutting-edge achievements in the future.</p> Tue, 16 Dec 2014 15:54:39 +0000 91 Prof. Victoria Kaspi, Fellow of the American Physical Society /science/node/11472 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Professor Victoria Kaspi</strong> in the Department of Physics! She has been elected a <strong>Fellow of the American Physical Society</strong> for advancing our understanding of the astrophysics of neutron stars by elucidating the relationship between anomalous X-ray pulsars, soft gamma-ray repeaters, and magnetars.</p> Tue, 16 Dec 2014 15:56:20 +0000 91 TV Broadcasts: Trottier Symposium and Mini-Science /science/node/8806 <p>Got an itch for knowledge? The Canal Savoir network will be broadcasting features from several 91 outreach and public lecture series, including the <a href="/science/events/trottier-symposium/2014/tv/"><em>2014 Lorne Trottier Public Science Symposium: Are we alone? Searching for life out there</em></a> and <em><a href="/science/events/mini/2014/broadcast/">Mini-Science 2014: The Science of Music</a>.</em> Refer to those schedules to find out when to tune in, and to find out more about each episode.</p> Tue, 09 Dec 2014 17:01:04 +0000 91 Congratulations to alumnus John O'Keefe, our newest Nobel laureate! /science/node/6425 <p>The Faculty of Science extends congratulations to alumnus <strong>John O'Keefe</strong> who was named co-winner of the <b>2014 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine</b>, for his contribution to the discovery of cells that constitute the brain’s ‘inner GPS,’ which makes it possible to orient ourselves in space. Dr. O’Keefe worked under the supervision of Professor Ron Melzack (Department of Psychology) and received his PhD from 91 in 1967. Read more:</p> <ul> <li><a href="/channels/news/mcgill-grad-john-o%E2%80%99keefe-wins-nobel-prize-medicine-239350" title=" 91 grad John O’Keefe wins Nobel Prize in medicine">91 grad John O’Keefe wins Nobel Prize in medicine</a> (91 news release)</li> <li><a href="http://publications.mcgill.ca/reporter/2014/10/nobel-winner-has-very-fond-memories-of-mcgill/">Nobel winner has very fond memories of 91</a> (91 Reporter article) Mon, 06 Oct 2014 15:53:13 +0000 91 Free Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus software for students /science/node/6362 <p>Starting today, August 19, 91 students have <strong>free access to the latest version of Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus,</strong> which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other Office apps. You may download and install it on up to five compatible personal devices, including PCs, Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Android smartphones and tablets.</p> <p>As long as you’re a student at 91, you’ll be able to continue to use Office 365 ProPlus at no charge, and will receive automatic software updates.</p> Tue, 19 Aug 2014 19:06:39 +0000 91 Heartbleed: reset your 91 Password /science/node/6255 <p>All of 91’s central IT systems have been evaluated for vulnerability to <a href="/it/channels/news/heartbleed-vulnerability-235202" target="_blank" title="This link opens in a new window">Heartbleed</a> and updates were applied where needed.<em> If you are a 91 staff member, you are required to change your password. </em>For others, <em>we strongly encourage</em> you to change your 91 Password without delay. </p> <h2>To reset your 91 Password:</h2> <ul> <li><em>Faculty, staff, &amp; students:</em> log into <a href="/minerva/" target="_blank" title="This link opens in a new window"><strong>Minerva</strong></a>, and go to the <em>Personal Menu &gt; Password for 91 Username. </em></li> <li><em>Affiliates:</em> go to <a href="/reggie/" target="_blank" title="This link opens in a new window"><strong>Reggie</strong></a> and click on <em>Change Account Information,</em> then select<em> 91 Password. </em></li> </ul> <h3>Notes:  Wed, 14 May 2014 18:32:31 +0000 91 Prof. Matt Dobbs, inaugural Dunlap Award from the Canadian Astronomical Society /science/node/5972 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. Matt Dobbs</strong> in the Department of Physics for winning the <strong>inaugural Dunlap Award from the Canadian Astronomical Society.</strong> He received this award in recognition of his international leadership on the design and implementation of systems using Superconducting Transition-Edge Sensor bolometers. The prize citation states in part:</p> Tue, 25 Mar 2014 20:51:46 +0000 91 Grinding chemistry, greening chemistry /science/node/5970 <p>What if you could re-engineer chemical processes so that instead of using toxic solvents or expensive catalysts, you could incite molecules to bind simply by grinding them together? 91 Chemistry Professor <strong>Tomislav Friscic</strong> is a leader in the field of mechanochemistry. Read more about his work in "<a href="http://www.cheminst.ca/magazine/feature-story/grinding-chemistry">Grinding chemistry</a>" from the Chemical Institute of Canada.</p> Fri, 21 Mar 2014 21:05:04 +0000 91 Prof. Bruce A. Reed, Humboldt Research Award /science/node/5951 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. Bruce A. Reed</strong>, FRSC, Canada Research Chair in Graph Theory in the School of Computer Science for receiving a prestigious <strong>Humboldt Research Award</strong>. This award recognizes researchers at the peak of their careers whose fundamental discoveries, new theories, or insights have had a significant impact on their own discipline, and who are expected to continue producing cutting-edge achievements in the future. Thu, 20 Feb 2014 17:52:39 +0000 91 Prof. Isztar Zawadzki, Luis Federico Leloir Award for International Cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovation /science/node/5947 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Dr. Isztar Zawadzki</strong>, FRSC, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Atmospheric &amp; Oceanic Sciences for receiving a <strong>2013 Luis Federico Leloir Award</strong> from the <strong>Argentinian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Productive Innovation</strong>. This award recognizes non-Argentinian scientists who have contributed significantly to scientific, technological, and innovation cooperation with Argentina.</p> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 17:26:03 +0000 91 Prof. Fred Genesee, CPA Gold Medal Award /science/node/5944 <p>Congratulations to <strong>Prof. Fred Genesee</strong> (Department of Psychology) for winning the <strong>2014 Gold Medal Award</strong> from the <strong>Canadian Psychological Association</strong>. This award recognizes distinguished and enduring lifetime contributions to Canadian Psychology, and is fitting, as Professor Genesee's research on immersion education, bilingualism, and language acquisition has had enormous impact on science and public policy over the course of several decades.</p> Tue, 04 Feb 2014 15:44:26 +0000 91 Prof. Ehab Abouheif and Prof. Aashish Clerk, NSERC E.W.R Steacie Memorial Fellowships; Michael Lifshitz, NSERC André Hamer Postgraduate Prize /science/node/5943 <h4>Three 91 researchers among the recipients of NSERC national prizes</h4> <p>Two 91 researchers—<strong>Prof. Ehab Abouheif</strong>, of the Department of Biology, and <strong>Prof. Aashish Clerk</strong>, Department of Physics—have been named as 2014 recipients of E.W.R Steacie Memorial Fellowships, awarded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada’s (NSERC). In addition, doctoral candidate <strong>Michael Lifshitz</strong>, working in the cognitive neuroscience lab of Prof. Amir Raz, has won NSERC’s 2013 André Hamer Postgraduate Prize. Mon, 03 Feb 2014 16:03:24 +0000 91 Prof. Derek Gray, CIC Macromolecular Science and Engineering Award 2014 /science/node/5941 <p>Congratulations to Dr. Derek Gray, Emeritus Professor in the Department of Chemistry, for winning the 2014 <b>Macromolecular Science and Engineering Award</b> from the Chemical Institute of Canada. This award is presented to an individual who, while residing in Canada, has made a distinguished contribution to macromolecular science or engineering. Professor Gray’s research interests have focussed on the structural polymers in wood, and in particular on cellulose and cellulose derivatives.</p> Fri, 31 Jan 2014 21:00:38 +0000 91 91 astronomers earn spot on list of 2013 Top 10 breakthroughs /science/node/5861 <p><em>Physics World cites work by South Pole Telescope team</em></p> <p>Scientists in 91’s Astrophysics group have been honoured in <em>Physics World</em> magazine’s list of top 10 breakthroughs in physics for 2013.</p> Wed, 18 Dec 2013 23:41:04 +0000 91 Deep-sea study reveals cause of 2011 tsunami /science/node/5846 <p><em>Drilling in Japan Trench by international scientific team finds unusually thin, slippery geological fault</em></p> <p>The devastating tsunami that struck Japan’s Tohoku region in March 2011 was touched off by a submarine earthquake far more massive than anything geologists had expected in that zone.</p> Fri, 06 Dec 2013 20:56:30 +0000 91 Prof. Niky Kamran, 2014 CRM-Fields-PIMS Prize /science/node/5836 <p>Congratulations to<strong> Prof. Niky Kamran</strong> (Department of Mathematics and Statistics) for receiving the <strong>2014 CRM-Fields-PIMS Prize</strong>, Canada's premier prize in mathematics. Professor Kamran's achievements lie in the areas of analysis and differential geometry. The <a href="http://www.fields.utoronto.ca/press/13-14/13123NikyKamran.html">prize citation</a> highlights both his work on the topic of exterior differential systems and his contributions to the mathematical analysis of the Einstein equations of general relativity.</p> Wed, 04 Dec 2013 19:06:12 +0000 91 Profs. Ariel Fenster and Kenneth Ragan, Principal’s Prizes for Excellence in Teaching /science/node/5789 <p>Congratulations to the Faculty of Science's two most recent winners of the Principal’s Prizes for Excellence in Teaching! At Fall Convocation on November 25, 2013, <strong>Prof. Ariel Fenster,</strong> Department of Chemistry, received this prize in the Faculty Lecturer category, as did<strong> Prof. Kenneth J. Ragan,</strong> William C. Macdonald Chair in Physics, in the Full Professor Category.</p> Wed, 27 Nov 2013 16:34:44 +0000 91 New Canada Research Chairs in the Faculty of Science /science/node/5775 <p>The Faculty of Science congratulates the following four new Canada Research Chairs:</p> Tue, 19 Nov 2013 20:17:06 +0000 91 Prof. Peter Russell, 2014 Fellow of the American Mathematical Society /science/node/5761 <p>Congratulations to K. Peter Russell, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics! He was recently named a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society "for contributions to algebraic geometry, for mentoring the next generation of mathematicians, and for professional leadership at the highest levels."</p> Tue, 05 Nov 2013 21:03:17 +0000 91 Profs. Catherine Potvin and Suzanne Fortier, Women Pioneers /science/node/5759 <p>Congratulations to Professor Catherine Potvin (Department of Biology) and to our Principal, Dr. Suzanne Fortier! They were recently named as Women Pioneers by Status of Women Canada on the occasion of Women's History Month.</p> <p><a href="http://www.cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/whm-mhf/profiles-eng.html">Visit their website</a> for profiles on Professor Potvin, Dr. Fortier, and 27 other distinguished Canadian women.</p> Thu, 31 Oct 2013 20:23:07 +0000 91 Visit the Redpath Museum via videoconference /science/node/5646 <p>The Redpath Museum now offers <strong>videoconferences</strong> to school groups of any grade or age level. <strong>Visit the Museum without having to take a field trip!</strong></p> <p>Choose from three presentations: Meet the Triceratops, Egyptian Life, or Quebec Biodiversity.</p> <p>The sessions are streamed live, last one hour, and feature a museum educator in the Redpath Museum galleries.</p> Tue, 20 Aug 2013 19:54:06 +0000 91 Webcasts, Mini-Science 2013 /science/node/5597 <p>Selected lectures from <em>Mini-Science 2013: Science, Sex, and Gender </em>are now available as <a href="/science/events/mini/2013/webcasts/"><strong>webcasts and podcasts</strong></a>. Listen or watch, when you want, where you want, at no charge!</p> Thu, 18 Jul 2013 20:56:49 +0000 91 TV broadcasts: Science outreach on Canal Savoir, July 11 to December 15 /science/node/5595 <p>Got an itch for knowledge? From July 11 to December 15, 2013, the Canal Savoir network will be broadcasting features from several series, including the Cutting Edge Lectures in Science; Mini-Science; the Women in Science, Engineering and Medicine Symposium; and more. <strong><a href="/canal-savoir/">Refer to the schedule</a></strong> to find out when to tune in, and to find out more about each episode.</p> <p>Canal Savoir is a non-profit, Quebec-based television network that strives to make higher learning accessible to everyone.</p> Wed, 17 Jul 2013 19:45:35 +0000 91 Miranda Wang: Improving the world one project at a time /science/node/5502 <p>Talented 91 student wins international acclaim and attention for trail-blazing research.</p> <p>Talented 91 student rolls up sleeves to help save the environment.</p> <p>Talented 91 student uses downtime to help people in need.</p> <p>All three of these storylines have been seen on these pages more than once, but this time, they all have to do with the same person; U0 Science undergrad, <strong>Miranda Wang</strong>.</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 16:02:54 +0000 91 Researchers concerned about lower levels of oxygen in the waters of the St. Lawrence River /science/node/5500 <p>The level of oxygen in the St. Lawrence estuary has fallen significantly in recent decades. The causes and long-term effects of this phenomenon are poorly understood and worry researchers. ... The affected underwater region is located near Tadoussac and off Rimouski. The oxygen that marine life depends upon has fallen by roughly half since the 1930s, according to <strong>Alfonso Mucci</strong>, a professor in the <strong>Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences</strong> at 91. ...</p> Tue, 07 May 2013 15:49:30 +0000 91 Why we age but our cells don't: The discovery of stem cells at 91 /science/node/5530 <p>Over 60 years ago, 91 Professors Yves Clermont and Charles Leblond published a paper that revolutionized our understanding of cell biology. Their stem cell renewal theory marks the first use of the term "stem cells" in this biological context. <br /> <br /> Read more about these pioneering scientists and their contributions on the <a href="/anatomy/stem-cell-renewal-theory">website of the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology</a>.</p> Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000 91 New Royal Society of Canada inductees from the Faculty of Science /science/node/5516 <p>The Faculty of Science offers congratulations to Professors <b>Laurie Hendren </b>(Computer Science), <b>Bruce Lennox </b>(Chemistry), <b>Chao-Jun Li</b> (Chemistry), and <b>Timothy Moore </b>(Geography), on being named Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada!</p> <p>Kudos also to the following Professors who are RSC Medal recipients: The Flavelle Medal, <b>Siegfried Hekimi </b>(Biology); the Rutherford Memorial Medal in Physics, <b>Guy Moore</b> (Physics); and the Miroslaw Romanowski Medal, <b>Catherine Potvin</b> (Biology).</p> Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0000 91