Projets novateurs réalisés

Confection des horaires des pilotes du St-Laurent central

Le projet consiste à développer une méthodologie novatrice, de type heuristique, de construction d’horaires annuels des pilotes de la Corporation des Pilotes du St-Laurent central. L’algorithme de construction d’horaires doit tenir compte de plusieurs contraintes tant au sein de la Corporation des Pilotes du Saint-Laurent central que celles imposées par l’Administration de Pilotage des Laurentides (APL). L’algorithme d’optimisation doit tenir compte du volume de circulation des navires de différentes classes tout au long de l’année et des qualifications des pilotes avec des contraintes mensuelles moyennes sur le minimum de pilotes pour chacune des classes de navires, qui correspondent aux qualifications des pilotes. Cet algorithme de construction des horaires sera incorporé dans un logiciel opérationnel au sein de l’entreprise et il permettra la construction des horaires ainsi que la réalisation de simulations en faisant varier les paramètres en lien avec les contraintes. Ce logiciel se veut un outil de planification et de gestion des opérations courantes de la Corporation.

Design Principles of Biological Networks

This project aims to uncover the design principles of biological networks, such as blood vessels in the kidney and brain, by developing automated tools to analyze high-resolution 3D images of human embryo vasculature. Using advanced imaging techniques and deep learning, the research will create efficient methods to study how these networks efficiently transport nutrients and information. The findings could lead to better treatments for diseases like stroke and kidney disease, while also inspiring innovations in engineering and technology, such as smarter infrastructure or more efficient communication systems. By collaborating with Dr. Alain Chedotal’s lab in Paris, the project will bring unique datasets and expertise to Canada, strengthening international research partnerships and positioning Canadian institutions as leaders in computational biology and bio-inspired design.

Feasibility study on the use of metallurgical slag in the production of thermophosphates

This study investigates the feasibility of reducing metallurgical slag to obtain reactive oxides which, when combined with hydroxyapatite, can form a thermophosphate of high agronomic value. Metallurgical slag is an industrial waste product rich in calcium, iron, and silica, which can be reused in fertilizers. Hydroxyapatite, on the other hand, is a stable source of phosphorus, and its interaction with slag oxides can promote the solubilization of the nutrients in the soil. The process involves the thermal reduction of slag, followed by controlled mixing with hydroxyapatite to promote the formation of phosphate compounds with greater availability for plants. The analysis includes chemical and structural characterization of the products formed to assess their effectiveness as a fertilizer. The expected results include a controlled-release material that is environmentally sustainable and economically viable, contributing to the reuse of industrial waste and efficiency in crop nutrition.

Metabolomics & Cancer Biomarkers

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common and aggressive form of kidney cancer, often diagnosed at advanced stages due to the lack of early symptoms. This project aims to improve RCC diagnosis by identifying metabolic biomarkers through a multiomics approach, integrating metabolomics and transcriptomics data.

Using advanced mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and computational tools like CAT Bridge, we will explore gene–metabolite interactions to uncover key regulatory pathways in RCC progression. By treating cancer staging as a progression model, we seek to establish causal links between genetic changes and metabolic alterations. This research will contribute to early detection, personalized treatment strategies, and non-invasive diagnostics, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Through collaboration between Chang Gung University in Taiwan and the University of Alberta in Canada, this project combines cutting-edge analytical techniques and computational models to advance biomarker discovery and precision medicine in RCC research.

Mise au point d’un nouveau procédé de fabrication de laser

Les travaux du stage seront effectués à l’Institut interdisciplinaire d’innovation technologique de l’Université de Sherbrooke au sein du groupe de recherche de la professeure Gwenaëlle Hamon qui se spécialise sur les procédés de micro-fabrication et caractérisation des dispositifs optoélectroniques tels que les panneaux solaires, phototransducteurs, lasers, etc. Le stage proposé vise la mise au point d’un nouveau procédé en salle blanche pour la fabrication de laser émettant à 1550nm sur substrat InP en partenariat avec une compagnie québécoise.

Geotab Ace: Enhancing Fleet Intelligence with Retrieval-Augmented Generative AI for Natural Language Data Interaction

Geotab is a global leader in IoT and connected transportation, providing data-driven insights for fleet management. Collecting over 4 billion data points daily from 4.5 million connected vehicles, Geotab’s AI Platform team focuses on leveraging machine learning to enhance data accessibility, fleet intelligence, and operational efficiency. A key challenge is improving user interaction with complex datasets, as traditional methods require manual report analysis and complex query navigation. To address this, Geotab is developing Geotab Ace, an AI assistant integrating Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and Large Language Models (LLMs) to enable intuitive, natural language-based data access. This project aims to enhance query accuracy, data retrieval efficiency, and user experience. The anticipated benefits include improved customer decision-making, reduced support overhead, and optimized fleet operations. Additionally, AI-driven fleet intelligence contributes to safer, more efficient transportation, reducing costs and emissions through predictive maintenance and route optimization. The project also advances practical AI applications in telematics, pushing the boundaries of LLM-based conversational AI in real-world, data-intensive environments. By making data-driven decision-making more accessible, this research benefits both Geotab and the broader industry, driving AI innovation in fleet management and IoT analytics.

L2M Launch- Vrit; A handheld bioprinting platform for treating severe skin wounds.

This project supports the commercialization of INSITE (In Situ Tissue Engineering Bioprinting System), a handheld bioprinting platform developed in the Guenther Lab at the University of Toronto. INSITE enables point-of-care delivery of personalized bioinks directly into skin wounds, offering a novel, autograft-free alternative for treating full-thickness burns and chronic wounds. Current gold-standard treatments rely on split-thickness skin grafts, which are painful, resource-intensive, and often unavailable in large injuries. INSITE addresses this unmet clinical need by printing regenerative biomaterials directly into the wound bed, conforming to complex surfaces and eliminating the need for donor site surgery.

The Guenther Lab aims to launch INSITE through a clinical-stage Canadian biotechnology venture, initially targeting smaller burns (0–20% TBSA), which account for over 90% of burn cases yet have no strong alternatives to grafting. Building on the momentum from the Lab2Market Validate program—during which the team conducted 65 stakeholder interviews including over 30 burn surgeons—this Launch project will focus on execution: finalizing reimbursement and regulatory strategies, validating product-market fit, securing strategic partnerships, and preparing for both non-dilutive (e.g., Army) and venture capital funding.

This internship will produce key commercialization deliverables: a reimbursement white paper, a regulatory roadmap, a refined business model, signed partnership agreements, and investor-ready fundraising materials. It will accelerate INSITE’s path toward clinical deployment and position Canada as a global leader in regenerative medicine and wound care innovation.

L2M- ZAP-010 – A natural, effective appetite suppressant

This project is focused on developing a novel, plant-based appetite suppressant called ZAP-010. Originally synthesized for agricultural use, ZAP-010 is a phytohormone that we have shown to reduce food intake and promote sustained weight loss in rodent models. Over 60% of Canadian adults are classified as overweight or obese and current treatment options, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, are expensive, inaccessible, and often associated with significant side effects. As such, there is an urgent need for safer, more affordable, and sustainable solutions, especially considering there are no scientifically validated natural supplements for appetite control. Our goal is to translate strong preclinical findings into a viable product for human use. In partnership with Eurofins Scientific and KGK Science, we will identify a regulatory-compliant source of ZAP-010, determine optimal human dosing, and prepare for a Health Canada–approved first-in-human clinical trial. We are also developing a commercialization pathway to ensure this innovation is positioned for long-term impact. This project directly supports our partner organization by advancing product development, de-risking early-stage innovation, and aligning preclinical science with regulatory and market-readiness milestones. ZAP-010 has the potential to disrupt the 88-billion-dollar global weight loss supplement market by offering a low-cost, accessible alternative for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical options for weight management. Beyond the commercial potential, the broader public health impact is substantial. If a safe and affordable appetite suppressant becomes widely adopted, it could reduce the national burden of metabolic disease and lead to significant healthcare savings while improving the quality of life for Canadians. Through this innovative partnership, we will refine our go-to-market strategy, deepen our understanding of regulatory and consumer landscapes, and work with experienced advisors to build a scalable solution with meaningful impact. This project represents a compelling opportunity to deliver a scientifically validated solution to a widespread and urgent health challenge.

L2M – Storelx

The proposed project focuses on helping Storelx, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, grow its user base and improve its online platform. The intern will work on attracting new users through digital marketing, making the website easier to use, and launching a referral program to encourage more people to join. By testing different marketing strategies and collecting user feedback, the intern will help improve the customer experience and make Storelx more competitive. This project will directly support Storelx’s growth by increasing visibility, driving new signups, and strengthening the overall platform.

Investigating the empowerment of teachers and studentsat Northern Canadian schools throughtelecommunication technology

The proposed research project investigates how the Telepresence technology (Connected North) has an impact on Northern students’ and teachers’ educational experience. Our goal is to assess the impact of its implementation within three contexts: connecting students to students, connecting students to experts, and connecting teachers to teachers. To this end, we will administer questionnaires to teachers and students before and after the introduction of the technology, as well as compare groups who experience versus do not experience the technology for a particular curriculum unit. The questionnaires will include measures of teacher and student empowerment, as well as student learning. This research project is relevant to our partner organization because Connected North is an initiative put forth by Cisco to improve the existing educational experience in the Northern territories. This project will directly benefit Cisco because it will inform the effectiveness of the Telepresence technology for the classroom setting. Overall, our research findings will be integrated into Cisco’s wider goal of understanding the impact of broadcast and streaming video in education.

L2M_Launch_NanopHast_BSI_Project_Proposal

NanopHast is developing cutting-edge solid-state pH sensors designed to replace traditional glass pH electrodes. Our sensors offers miniaturized pH measurement, opening up novel possibilities in drug discovery and development. NanopHast has longer shelf life, lower manufacturing costs and a maintenance free design for users. Our goal is to redefine pH measurement standards and help drive advancements in academia, pharmaceuticals and nanotechnology.

L2M – Strategic Development of ADAMTS13 as Novel Thrombolytic for Ischemic Stroke

We are developing a new treatment for ischemic stroke using a modified version of a natural anticoagulant called ADAMTS13. Existing stroke therapies are limited by a short treatment window and can carry serious risks. This new approach aims to safely extend the time patients can receive treatment, increasing access, especially for those in rural or underserved communities. As part of this project, we will study the market, consult with healthcare experts, and create a plan to bring the therapy into hospitals. The goal is to move one step closer to delivering a potentially life-saving option to stroke patients in Canada and beyond.