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Biography

I was born and raised in Quebec City. I have always had a strong penchant for sports and outdoor activities. I earned a bachelor's degree in environmental biology from McGill University and a PhD in biology from Carleton University. I completed a postdoctoral fellowship at The Ohio State University. I then became an assistant professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Ottawa. I was promoted to associate professor and then to full professor. I conduct basic research in ecology and applied research in conservation biology. I work primarily on reptiles.

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Research Description

My research program in fundamental ecology is funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and aims to explain what dictates spatial variation in animal density. I am particularly interested in habitat selection. I have also worked in the field of conservation biology to define critical habitats for species at risk and to document the consequences of accidental mortality for the survival probability of animal populations. I have worked primarily on reptiles, but I have also worked on fish, amphibians, birds, and insects. Most of my work has been carried out in Canada, in Ontario and Quebec, but I have also worked on the same themes in France, Morocco, and the United States.

Postdoctoral fellowship

2001-2002

Ohio State University

PhD in Biology

1996-2001

Carleton University

Bachelor's degree in biology

1993-1996

McGill University

Academic Experience

Professional Experience

Research

  • I have published over 160 scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals
  • I have supervised over 65 undergraduate theses, 35 master's theses, and 10 doctoral theses.
  • My research program is funded by the Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada as well as by research contracts with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
  • I have several collaborations in Canada and internationally.

Teaching

  • I teach in the fields of ecology and conservation biology.
  • I offer practical, on-the-ground training.
  • I have received several teaching awards.
  • I am an affiliated professor in the Master's program in Environmental Sustainability.

Service

  • I am a member of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Species in Canada
  • I am an associate editor for two peer-reviewed scientific journals
  • I was deputy director and then director of the environmental science program.
  • I am a monthly columnist on the Radio-Canada program Moteur de recherche.