2025 INQ Annual Symposium | Event Recap

From May 12 to 13, 2025, UQAM’s Cœur des sciences hosted the seventh edition of Institut nordique du Québec (INQ) Annual Symposium, formerly known as the INQ Northern Days. Centered on the theme of Health – Climate – Environment, the event brought together a dynamic and committed community of scientists, practitioners, Indigenous representatives, students, and Northern stakeholders.

Moderated by science journalist Valérie Borde, the symposium featured 37 talks and panels that blended high-level presentations with participatory workshops, all in a setting that was both professional and welcoming.

Discussions covered a broad range of topics, from health in Northern contexts and energy transitions to environmental justice, adapted architecture, biodiversity, and participatory research approaches. The My Northern Project competition provided a unique platform for 16 passionate students from six of INQ’s member universities, spotlighting the next generation of scientific leaders.

Acknowledgments

Institut nordique du Québec extends its deepest gratitude to its partners — UQAM, the CARES (Communities Addressing Rural and Remote Equity in Health Systems) network, and the McGill University Health Centre — whose collaboration was essential to the success of the event. A special thank you goes to Jean Lemire, Québec’s Climate Change Envoy, for his inspiring presence and insightful address, which aptly underscored the vital role of research in a changing world.

Finally, our heartfelt thanks go to Elder Amélia Tekwatonti McGregor, whose wisdom and kindness provided a meaningful and respectful framework for the opening and closing of the symposium.