- Awards and Distinctions
A prestigious honor for his advances in ultrafast laser science and technology.
Researcher at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) and director of the Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre, Professor François Légaré has been elected a member of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC). He will be officially inducted on November 13, 2026, in Ottawa, as part of the RSC’s Celebration of Excellence and Commitment.
This election ranks among the highest honors bestowed in Canada upon researchers whose work has made an exceptional contribution to the advancement of knowledge. In 2026, 105 individuals were admitted as members of the Royal Society of Canada as part of a cohort of 159 new members elected to the RSC and its College.
This recognition attests to the quality, impact, and international reach of François Légaré’s work in physics, photonics, and chemistry. At the intersection of basic research and technological innovation, his discoveries have helped advance our ability to observe matter and biological systems, while paving the way for cutting-edge applications in biomedical and materials sciences.
A career marked by major advances in ultrasfast laser science and technology
A physicist specializing in ultrafast lasers, François Légaré is internationally recognized for his contributions to ultrafast molecular imaging, the development of cutting-edge laser technologies, and the understanding of the physical mechanisms underlying nonlinear optical signals in biological tissues.
His research has led to the development of new optical approaches for observing matter and molecules on ultrafast timescales, while advancing nonlinear optical microscopy techniques for imaging biological tissues.
In particular, his work has deepened our understanding of the physical phenomena underlying various advanced imaging techniques, including second-harmonic and third-harmonic generation. This enhanced understanding facilitates the development of more powerful imaging tools for basic research and biomedical applications.
Beyond advancing knowledge, François Légaré’s achievements have led to several promising technological innovations. His career includes 11 patents as well as the creation of a successful spin-off company, few-cycle Inc., demonstrating the strong potential for technology transfer and commercialization of his work.
“I am deeply honored to become a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. This recognition highlights the work accomplished over the years with my colleagues, students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff, who contribute every day to advancing our research in ultrafast laser science and technology. It is also a wonderful opportunity to highlight the importance of basic research and its implications for a better understanding of matter and biological systems.”
François Légaré, professor at INRS and director of the Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications Research Centre
Message from the Administration
“The election of Professor François Légaré to the Royal Society of Canada recognizes an exceptional scientific career. Through his work in ultrafast laser science and technology, he has helped push the boundaries of our understanding of matter and biological systems. The entire INRS community congratulates him.”
Luc-Alain Giraldeau, Executive Director of the INRS.
About the Royal Society of Canada
Founded in 1882, the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) is the national organization that recognizes excellence in the arts, social sciences, humanities, and sciences. It brings together individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions to their disciplines and their commitment to advancing knowledge in Canada and abroad.
Each year, the RSC inducts new members during induction ceremonies that highlight their remarkable contributions to research and the advancement of knowledge.
A Highly Distinguished Community
The INRS regularly distinguishes itself on the Quebec, Canadian, and international stages thanks to the excellence of its research and innovations.