92nd Acfas Conference features public events that bring research to life
The 92nd Acfas Conference will take place from May 5 to 9 on the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS) campus in Montreal, under the theme Research at the heart of technological and social solutions. The two host universities, ÉTS and Concordia University, invite the public to take part in Science-moi! as well as other special activities.
Science-moi!
Presented by Hydro-Québec, the Science-moi! program offers privileged access to research. The 2025 edition is organized in collaboration with Acfas, ÉTS, Concordia University and partners from the scientific culture network. It features six free events open to all:
Haut-parleuses
Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Espace pour la vie, Montreal
Scientists will be stationed at the Biodôme and the Planetarium to talk about their research, their daily lives and, most importantly, to answer questions related to science.
Lundi HiHi
Monday, May 5, 8 to 10 p.m., Resto-Pub 100 Génies (ÉTS)
A night of science and comedy as punchy as hydroiodic acid. In honour of the 92nd Acfas Conference, scientists and comedians will team up to serve a smart and savoury set of jokes, storytelling and commentary, all delivered in a relaxed atmosphere.
A night under the stars
Tuesday, May 6, 7:30 p.m., Planetarium de Montréal
A group of researchers and poets will gather in the Planetarium de Montréal’s Chaos Theatre to guide audiences on a journey from the visible world to the infinitely small. Under the glow of the dome, they will reveal the invisible, evoke emotion and share stories and words.
MT180 National Final
Wednesday, May 7, 7 p.m., Auditorium, Grande Bibliothèque – BAnQ
Presented by Hydro-Québec, the Ma thèse en 180 secondes (MT180) competition invites PhD students to explain their research in simple terms. In just three minutes, each candidate delivers a clear, concise and convincing presentation of their project.
Arts and technology in fusion: Connections and interactions at the SAT
Thursday, May 8, 5 to 8 p.m., Société des arts technologiques (SAT)
ÉTS, UQAC-NAD and the Hexagram network will host an immersive evening devoted to research-creation. Held in the Satosphère immersive theatre, the event will showcase innovative projects that blend art and science.
Investigating a drop of water
Friday, May 9, 9 to 9:45 a.m. or 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., online activity
This online event is reserved for students who want to learn about biodiversity in Quebec’s rivers and lakes. All living beings leave traces of DNA — skin, hair and more. Environmental DNA (eDNA) makes it possible to identify what lives in a body of water. This activity, part of the Mission ADN-eau project, will let students experience hands-on science in action.
Special public events
This year’s edition also includes about a dozen special and social events to spark scientific curiosity and promote exchanges between the public and the research community. Those interested in participating in any of the public events listed below are encouraged to reserve in advance.
Toward a responsible and sustainable use of artificial intelligence
Tuesday, May 6, 5:30 to 7:45 p.m., Concordia University Conference Centre
Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing at lightning speed, fuelling both hope and concern. It is reshaping industries, redefining professional practices and raising major ethical, social and environmental questions. How can we guide its development in a fair, sustainable and responsible way? With support from Ubisoft, this evening will bring together academic and industry experts to explore how to think about, regulate and guide AI for the common good.
Arctic Symphony: Art and AI for eco-resilience
Wednesday, May 7, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., amphitheatre A-1600, Pavilion A, ÉTS
In a world where climate change threatens ecosystems and youth mental health, a team of researchers, artists and students from Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Music presents a musical work translating 50 years of scientific data on melting ice and thawing permafrost in Nunavik into sound. Registration required.
Beyond imposter syndrome: A panel to inspire confidence
Wednesday, May 7, 5 to 7 p.m., Alumni lounge, Maison des étudiants, ÉTS
Imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where people, despite their qualifications and achievements, doubt their worth and attribute success to luck or circumstance. This panel will explore those doubts and their impact in academic and professional settings. Panellists will share insights and experiences to shed light on the psychological and sociocultural factors behind imposter syndrome. Registration required.
Being Quebec’s Chief Scientist: A conversation with Rémi Quirion
Thursday, May 8, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Alumni lounge, Maison des étudiants, ÉTS
Rémi Quirion is Quebec’s first chief scientist. When he took on the role, everything had to be built from the ground up. Today, Quebec boasts a solid science advisory network at home and abroad. In partnership with the Fonds de recherche du Québec, Acfas presents this 5 à 7 conversation between Sophie Montreuil and Rémi Quirion about the role of chief scientist and the ins and outs of science policy.
