News & Events
- News
CERC-LM Writing Retreat 2026 Brings Researchers Together for Two Productive Days
On June 29–30, members of the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Light–Matter Interactions (CERC-LM) gathered at the MIL campus in Montréal for the 2026 Writing Retreat, an event dedicated to advancing research projects while strengthening connections across the CERC community.
Over two days, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and team members participated in structured writing sessions designed to support focused work on scientific manuscripts, thesis chapters, research proposals, and other academic projects. The retreat provided a dedicated environment free from everyday distractions, allowing participants to make meaningful progress on their writing goals.
Beyond individual productivity, the event fostered collaboration and peer support. Regular breaks and informal discussions created opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, share writing strategies, and learn from one another’s experiences. Wellness activities, including yoga sessions led by a member of the group, helped promote balance and maintain energy throughout the retreat.
The event also highlighted the strong community spirit of CERC-LM. Participants worked together to organize meals and refreshments, contributing homemade snacks and helping with the setup and smooth running of the retreat. This collective effort contributed to a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that reflected the collaborative values of the research community.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting that the shared writing environment encouraged focus, accountability, and motivation. The retreat demonstrated the value of creating dedicated opportunities for researchers to advance their work while building stronger professional connections.
CERC-LM thanks everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this year’s Writing Retreat and looks forward to future editions of this initiative. A special thank you to Mirjam Fines-Neuschild, Principal Coordinator, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), whose leadership and dedication were instrumental in the success of the 2026 CERC-LM Writing Retreat.
- #CERC
Welcoming New Core Team Members to the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Light‑Matter Interactions
We are delighted to announce the expansion of the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Light‑Matter Interactions (CERC‑LM) core team with the addition of three outstanding researchers: Prof. David Cooke (McGill University), Prof. Saurabh Maiti (Concordia University), and Prof. Pascale Caïdor (Université de Montréal).
Their diverse expertise will significantly strengthen our interdisciplinary mission to advance research at the frontier of light–matter interactions.
Prof. David Cooke brings world-class leadership in experimental physics, with a focus on ultrafast terahertz spectroscopy and advanced measurement techniques. His work will enhance our capacity to experimentally probe and understand dynamic processes in quantum materials at unprecedented timescales, supporting the development of innovative photonic and electronic systems.
Prof. Saurabh Maiti contributes deep expertise in theoretical condensed matter physics. His research on superconductivity, quantum many-body systems, and emergent electronic phenomena will provide critical theoretical frameworks to guide and interpret experimental discoveries within the CERC‑LM, enabling the prediction of new quantum states and functionalities.
Prof. Pascale Caïdor adds a vital dimension to our team through her work in communication, organizational studies, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). Her research on the role of communication in addressing inequalities and driving organizational change will help strengthen the governance, inclusivity, and societal impact of our research initiatives, ensuring that our scientific advancements are aligned with responsible and inclusive practices.
Together, these three scholars reinforce the CERC‑LM’s commitment to excellence by integrating experimental innovation, theoretical insight, and social responsibility. We are excited to welcome them and look forward to the impactful collaborations and breakthroughs that will emerge from their contributions.
- #CERC, #silvascience
Call for applications | Institut Courtois Postdoctoral Fellowship (UdeM) – A 3-year opportunity to conduct high-impact exploratory research in materials science + AI.
The Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Light–Matter Interactions at the Université de Montréal is actively recruiting candidates for this fellowship completion of the Institut Courtois, under the mentorship of Carlos Silva Acuña, Félix Thouin, Hao Li, and Mirjam Fines-Neuschild, the CERC leadership team. https://lnkd.in/eVqxURx6
We are seeking accomplished, top-tier candidates working at the forefront of ultrafast spectroscopy, with particular (but not exclusive) interest in:
- Experimental THz spectroscopy
- Quantum dynamics modelling
Our program operates at the leading edge of coherent nonlinear spectroscopy and quantum materials, with a strong emphasis on extracting many-body correlations through advanced measurement and modelling strategies.
We are looking for candidates with a demonstrated record of excellence who are ready to drive ambitious, high-impact research in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to reach out to discuss potential projects and alignment with ongoing efforts.
We would appreciate your help in sharing this opportunity with outstanding candidates in your networks.
- #CERC, #MaterialsScience, #silvascience, #spectroscopy
Henry J. Kantrow– PhD Dissertation Defense
We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Henry K. on the successful defense of his PhD thesis: “Understanding Photophysical Processes in Polymer Semiconductors: From Flexible-Chain to Ribbon-Like Materials”!
Henry joined our group as a chemical engineer and left as so much more: a physical chemist, a materials scientist, spectroscopist, mentor, and a true citizen of the global research community.
His work has deepened our understanding of photophysical processes in polymer semiconductors and opened the doors to more meaningful contributions to the field.
We have no doubt he will make a lasting impact. It has been an honor Henry. You will be missed. We can’t wait to see what more you accomplish. Cheers!
- #CERC, #MaterialsScience, #spectroscopy
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