- Awards and Distinctions
The Prix Planète are presented to INRS professors who have made outstanding contributions to the development and sharing of scientific knowledge.
The 2025 Career Excellence in Research Award was presented to Professor Daniel Cyr for his lifetime achievements in toxicology and cellular and molecular biology, and for his study of the effects of environmental contaminants on the male reproductive system.
An international reputation in the field of andrology and toxicology
For 30 years, Professor Cyr’s research has focused on intercellular interactions and communication, the blood-epididymal barrier, epididymal stem cells, and the effects of environmental contaminants on these cells. With nearly 200 publications to his credit, Professor Cyr has seen his work cited more than 10,000 times and has presented it more than 100 times at local, national, and international conferences. He has also played an important role in disseminating research results through numerous interviews in media outlets in Canada and abroad. During his career, he has participated in projects totaling nearly $49 million in research funding and has trained more than 90 people at all levels in his laboratory. Professor Cyr has contributed significantly to INRS’s reputation in toxicology, and his opinions and advice have been sought by government, industry, and funding and research organizations. He has received numerous prestigious awards and distinctions in recognition of his work, including being appointed as a member of the Cercle d’excellence de l’Université du Québec in 2015.
An exemplary career and a significant impact on research
The INRS Prix Planète selection committee was impressed by Professor Cyr’s productivity, both in terms of his scientific output and his training of highly qualified personnel. The jury praised his internationally renowned expertise and his major contributions to the advancement and transfer of knowledge. Professor Cyr’s achievements and many contributions to our research centre and numerous scientific committees reflect well on INRS.
“I think it’s very important for researchers to contribute to society by sharing the results of our funded work with the public. I have worked hard throughout my career to explain environmental toxicology and educate the public about endocrine disruptors and male infertility. People are concerned about environmental effects, so it is a privilege for me to share what is happening in research on the topic with them.”
Daniel G. Cyr, Full Professor at the INRS Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie and former Canada Research Chair in Reproductive Toxicology
Recognizing faculty members’ contributions to the economic, social, and cultural development of society
The Prix Planète celebrates individual or collaborative contributions by faculty members to pursuing the three main pillars of INRS’s mission: fundamental and applied research, graduate training and education, and knowledge and technology transfer.
The Career Excellence in Research Award recognizes the exceptional career of a faculty member whose achievements, actions, and major initiatives have had a significant and lasting impact on INRS and the scientific community. This award comes with a $5,000 research fund.
