About Us
The Infectiopole unites more than 35 research teams in the fight against infectious diseases. Whether it is by contributing to the training the of the next generation of scientists or through the implementation of innovative projects necessary to improve our knowledge base, the members of the Infectiopôle all aim to contribute to the fight against infectious diseases. From prevention to treatment and from the mechanisms of infection all the way to epidemiology, the varied expertises available through the Infectiopôle allows for a unique multidisciplinary approach to the infectious problems of today, as well as those of tomorrow.
To fight against infectious diseases
Infectious diseases are caused by microscopic organisms, such as bacterias, viruses, mushrooms or parasites, transmitted directly or inderctly from one person to another or even from infected animals to humans. Collectively, these transmissible diseases are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, disproportionately affecting the poor and children.
While scientific breakthroughs have allowed to better control and reduce significantly the associated mortality of infectious diseases, the rapidly increasing emergence of new transmissible diseases or their re-emergence illustrates their dynamic nature as well as the necessity of preparing ourselves to combat them. In this regard, the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 is a powerful reminder of the changes that can be brought by infectious diseases on human life.
Researchers from the INRS Infectiopole work towards discovering the mechanisms associated with the development of these diseases and conceiving innovative tools to prevent, treat and better control them.
From a scientific standpoint, the pandemic caused by SARS-COV-2 has clearly highlighted the essential role of the technological advances and knowledge generated by decades of research.
Albert Descoteaux
Professor at INRS
The National Institute of Scientific Research (INRS) is an academic institution exclusively dedicated to research and the formation of graduate students. From its inception in 1969, it has contributed actively to the economical, social and cultural development of Quebec. INRS is ranked first in Quebec and in Canada in research intensity. The institute is composed of four thematic and interdisciplinary research and training centers located in Quebec City, Montreal, Laval and Varennes, who focus their activities towards strategic sectors.
INRS is one of the founding members of the Biotech City of Laval, at the heart of which resides the Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie centre. By pooling its interdisciplinary expertises, INRS aims towards better understanding the mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, the links between environmental polluants and the development of illnesses, as well as the potential of microorganisms for biotechnological developments.