Findings of McGill study could lead to new longevity therapies and improved fall prevention
A new McGill University study has found a direct link between age‑related declines in neuron activity in the cerebellum and worsening motor skills, including gait, balance and agility. While it is well known that these abilities diminish with age, this is the first research to pinpoint how changes in Purkinje cells – a key type of cerebellar neuron – drive this decline and translate into measurable changes in behaviour and physical function.
David Harpp (1937-2026)
It is with a heavy heart that we write to inform you know that David Harpp, the Tomlinson Professor Emeritus in Science Education, our colleague, but also to many of us in the department a teacher, mentor and friend for many decades, passed away Saturday February 14th, peacefully and in the presence of those closest to him.
Siva Reddy (Computer Science and Linguistics) and Katelin Schutz (Physics) awarded 2026 Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowships
Professors Siva Reddy (Computer Science and Linguistics) and Katelin Schutz (Physics) have been named 2026 Sloan Research Fellows.
Plants retain a ‘genetic memory’ of past population crashes, study shows
Researchers at McGill University and the United States Forest Service have found that plants living in areas where human activity has caused population crashes carry long-lasting genetic traces of that history, such as reduced genetic diversity.
People can learn to reject unfair advantages, even when it costs them
A new study co-authored by McGill University researchers suggests people can be taught to reject unfair advantages.
Dr. Bridget Andersen awarded the Dr. Allie Vibert Douglas Astrophysics PhD Thesis Prize
Congratulations to Dr. Bridget Andersen, who has received the Dr. Allie Vibert Douglas Astrophysics PhD Thesis Prize!
Two funding opportunities available for students participating in a Field Study Semester
The Faculty of Science is pleased to share two awards available for students participating in a Field Study Semester (FSS) in the 2026-2027 or 2027-2028 academic year.
Professor Signy Sheldon Featured on CNN with Dr. Sanjay Gupta
We’re excited to share that Professor Signy Sheldon appeared on CNN’s “Chasing Life” with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, where she discussed her research on memory, the brain, and how our past experiences shape who we are. In this engaging interview, Professor Sheldon offers insights into the science of autobiographical memory and why we remember certain moments more vividly than others.
McGill team awarded CIFAR AI Safety Catalyst Grant to advance developer oversight in AI-assisted coding
McGill team aims to develop guidelines, tools, and policy insights that help software engineers work safely and effectively with AI-assisted coding systems.Freshwater browning threatens growth and populations of economically important fish, McGill researchers say
Freshwater browning is stunting fish growth of some species, shrinking populations of others and changing the composition of fish communities, McGill-led research suggests. “Browning” refers to freshwater bodies turning tea-coloured, a phenomenon driven by higher levels of dissolved organic matter and/or higher levels of iron in the water. Causes include changes in land use and climate, and reduced acid precipitation.
Department Research Featured Among Quebec’s Top Discoveries
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We’re proud to share that a paper on pain research, featuring Professor Caroline Palmer, Professor Roy, and PhD student Wenbo Yi, has been recognized as one of Quebec Science’s Top 10 Discoveries of the Year. This achievement highlights the innovative work being done in our department to advance understanding of pain mechanisms and perception.
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From Script to Speed: How First Language Influences Reading
Half the world is multilingual but does one's first writing system shape how you read in English?
Guest Lecture Spotlight: Prof. James MacDougall on Language and Inclusion
On November 25, Professor James MacDougall, whose long-standing work to improve quality of life for deaf and disabled people in Canada (https://www.gg.ca/en/honours/recipients/146-9382), delivered a masterclass guest lecture to undergraduates in “The Psychology of Bilingualism” (psyc341), taught by Professor Debra Titone. It was a privilege to learn about this field and Dr. MacDougall’s work that all present enjoyed!
McGill researchers develop a cheaper, safer material for use in solar panels, sensors and optical devices
Using proteins from a common tobacco plant virus, McGill chemistry researchers have developed a simple, eco-friendly way to arrange gold nanoparticles into ultrathin sheets, strengthening the particles’ optical properties. The result: cheaper, safer materials for solar panels, sensors and advanced optical devices.
Professor Audrey Moores (Chemistry) awarded the Canadian Pacific Chair in Biotechnology
Congratulations to Professor Audrey Moores (Chemistry), who has been awarded the Canadian Pacific Chair in Biotechnology!
The Canadian Pacific Chair in Biotechnology is an endowed chair created in 1984 to promote research in the field of biotechnology. The chair is awarded for a five-year term and rotates among McGill's Faculties of Medicine, Science and Agriculture.