McGill researchers win Prix du Québec
McGill researchers Graham Bell and Rémi Quirion have been awarded the Prix du Québec, the province's highest research honour. They were honoured at a ceremony at the National Assembly Tuesday evening.
Dr Graham Bell, FRSC, is Director of the Redpath Museum and James McGill Professor of Biology. He was awarded the Prix Marie-Victorin for pure and applied sciences in recognition of his achievements in the field of evolutionary biology. He is at the forefront of this field in Canada and internationally, having published a number of influential papers in high-profile journals, including Science and Nature. He is particularly interested in the origins of biodiversity, a topical question in the present era of rapid species extinction.
Dr Rémi Quirion, CQ, FRSC, Professor of Psychiatry, is Scientific Director of the Research Centre at the McGill-affiliated Douglas Hospital, and Scientific Director of the Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction (Canadian Institutes of Health Research). He was awarded the Prix Wilder-Penfield in biomedical sciences for his research in neuroscience. His work in the areas of Alzheimer's disease, aging, schizophrenia and the role of neuropeptides has earned him an international reputation.
The Principal of McGill, Professor Heather Munroe-Blum, said, "Graham Bell and Rémi Quirion are making their mark internationally in their respective fields. We at McGill are proud of these wonderful colleagues and are extremely pleased to see their contributions recognized at home by the juries of the Prix du Québec."
The 2004 awards bring to 27 the number of Prix du Québec received by McGill researchers since the prizes were established 27 years ago.
About the Prix du Québec
The Prix du Québec have existed in their current form since 1977. Each year, the government confers six such awards in the cultural field and five in the scientific field. The purpose of this tribute is to recognize the careers of women and men who have demonstrated a passion for their calling — individuals who have stood out by their creative or innovative spirit and whose work has contributed to the influence of Quebec around the world and to the evolution of Quebec society in their respective fields.
About McGill University
McGill University is Canada's leading research-intensive university and has earned an international reputation for scholarly achievement and scientific discovery. Founded in 1821, McGill has 21 faculties and professional schools which offer more than 300 programs from the undergraduate to the doctoral level. McGill attracts renowned professors and researchers from around the world and top students from more than 150 countries, creating one of the most dynamic and diverse education environments in North America. There are approximately 23,000 undergraduate students at the University, and 7,000 graduate students. It is one of two Canadian members of the American Association of Universities. McGill's two campuses are located in Montreal, Canada.
