As part of an economic mission taking place in Europe, Prime Minister Philippe Couillard announced in London a scientific and academic partnership between Université Laval and Oxford University. The objective of this partnership is to create an international consortium in forest genomics.
Spearheaded by Professor John MacKay, a world-renowned expert in the field, Full Professor at Université Laval and Wood Professor of Forest Science at Oxford University, the consortium will address the major scientific challenges involving the productivity and sustainability of both natural and managed forests. Expected outcomes include improved health and productivity of forests and their sustainable management. This partnership represents a major opportunity for Québec and Canada.