NOTICE – The Fonds de recherche du Québec (FRQ) was established on June 1, 2024, in accordance with the Act to amend the Act respecting the Ministère de l’Économie et de l’Innovation with respect to research. The Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies (FRQNT), the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) and the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Société et culture (FRQSC) have since been regrouped into the new FRQ, which continues their existence. The rights and obligations of the FRQNT, FRQS and FRQSC have become those of the FRQ; activities continue as usual.

Please note that if you come across an old name or logo of one of the Fonds de recherche du Québec in the program rules or on the website, it should now read as follows:

  • The FRQNT becomes the Nature et technologies sector;
  • The FRQS becomes the Santé sector;
  • The FRQSC becomes the Société et culture sector.

Thank you for your understanding.

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2nd prize: Thierry Lefèvre, Université Laval

From 2006 to 2018, Thierry Lefèvre worked as a specialist in vibrational spectroscopy in the research laboratories of professors Michel Pézolet and Michèle Auger and then went on to become the coordinator of the Center for Research on Advanced Materials (CERMA).

He has largely contributed to the development of methods to quantitatively assess the structural organization of proteins in micrometer anisotropic samples—the prime example of which is spider silk. The advances helped make the laboratory an international reference in the area of silk.

As a research professional, he has co-supervised some 20 graduate students, supporting them on a daily basis in the different stages of their research careers. He has refereed 45 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals and co-authored nearly 50 scientific papers and book chapters. He has also given various scientific and public lectures.

Thierry Lefèvre’s commitment to society and the environment has led him to defend and gain recognition for the contributions of professionals to the research ecosystem and promote sustainable development in academia.