An inclusive and unifying ASSO
NB: This series of encounters highlights the diversity of the members of the IRCM community, the variety of their expertise and the depth of their commitment to their respective roles
The IRCM is fortunate to benefit from the many and beneficial actions of a dynamic and creative student association. The ASSO is evidently responsible for social events such as parties and happy hours, which fosters exchange and cohesion between IRCM members. But the ASSO also plays an invaluable role as a guide and integration support, and more generally, as a support for its members as well as a bridge to nurture for better mutual understanding management.
We owe this important work to a number of people involved in the ASSO, first and foremost, its President, Élie Lambert. A young scientist, both discreet and efficient, he shares about his early days at the IRCM, and the evolution of ASSO's role in recent years.
“I arrived at the IRCM in 2019, looking for a place to pursue my PhD in genomics after spending the previous ten years in Sherbrooke,” explains the native of an Eastern Townships’ village. “It was my first time in Montreal and I quickly chose Dr. François Robert's lab, which corresponded perfectly to my research interests. The best way for me to integrate the community and meet new people was to join the ASSO on my arrival. I quickly realized that, as an association, we could and should do so much more.’’
He explains that how he saw the ASSO's role evolve within IRCM over the last few years, feeling that management's openness has enabled the student group to deploy its action more widely.
As the end of his mandate approaches, Élie talks about the major projects currently underway at the ASSO, in addition to the ever-present issue of funding for students and science.
“The French learning project we are currently launching is particularly close to my heart. Its aim is to facilitate integration and exchanges between all members of our wonderful community, as well as to stimulate conversations about science, in both languages.”
The ASSO is also working on the major Marie and Willie Chrétien Conferences Series, which is full of great surprises, and on several other unifying projects.
Élie stresses the importance of reaching out to everyone, not just the student community.
“The ASSO is not only for the benefit of the students, but for that of the whole IRCM community. In every project, we try to involve everyone to contribute to breaking break silos. We want to be inclusive and bring people together.’’
Thank you, Élie, for the sustained work of the ASSO.
