Jérôme Dupras named Quebec scientific chief, replacing Rémi Quirion

Jérôme Dupras was named scientific chief of Quebec on Wednesday, the Quebec government said. Dupras, known as the bassist of the Cowboys Fringants and president of the Fonds de recherche du Québec, will succeed Rémi Quirion.

The appointment puts him in a role that advises the minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy on research and science development. It also gives him a formal voice on scientific questions that can inform public policy.

Dupras and the Quebec role

Bernard Drainville described Dupras at a press conference Wednesday as "C’est un acteur de premier plan de notre diplomatie scientifique". The ministry will now rely on him to issue scientific opinions and help promote Quebec research in Canada and around the world.

The scientific chief also promotes research careers and scientific culture. That part of the job reaches beyond government files and into the way Quebec presents its research community to students, institutions and outside partners.

Rémi Quirion since 2011

Quirion had held the position since 2011. He had announced this year that he would leave his duties, clearing the way for a new scientific chief to take over the post.

Dupras inherits a post built around advice, not enforcement. The office does not set policy alone, but it can shape the scientific arguments ministers hear before decisions are made.

Quebec science policy role

For Quebec researchers, the change means the province will be represented by a figure who already leads the Fonds de recherche du Québec and has a public profile outside government. For the government, the appointment signals continuity in a role tied to research development and scientific communication.

What happens next is straightforward: Dupras steps into the office as the government’s scientific chief, and the policy work attached to the post shifts to him.