Embracing a Joyful Versatility at the Heart of a Dynamic Lab
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
When you meet Camille Malouf, associate researcher in Dr. Jean-François Côté’s laboratory, you discover a scientist who is both composed and passionate—and deeply attached to her work environment and team. Her journey is a vivid example of the rich experiences that lead to IRCM: after her initial studies, Camille headed to the United Kingdom, where she spent nearly a decade in prestigious institutions. From 2012 to 2015, she worked at the University of Cambridge, then at the University of Edinburgh until 2022.
“It was extraordinary,” she recalls. “I met colleagues who became friends, and I learned so much.”.
Returning to Montreal felt natural, driven by a desire to reconnect with her roots and an opportunity in Dr. Côté’s lab.
I had been thinking about coming back for a while. When a position opened, everything fell into place.
Today, alongside her colleague Amélie Robert, Camille plays a key role in the lab’s operations: she supervises students, supports research projects, and ensures the quality of experiments.
We’re like Jean-François’s second pair of eyes. It’s very collaborative—and I love that.
What does she value most at IRCM? The openness and warmth.
Here, no matter your status, everyone talks to each other. It’s a caring, welcoming environment.
She also highlights the positive dynamic of her team—young, mostly female, and deeply committed to mutual support.
We optimize experiments together, we learn from each other. It’s incredibly stimulating.
Camille thrives on the variety of her responsibilities: from lab work to scientific writing and participation in committees like the animal welfare committee, she never stops learning.
It’s a place where growth never ends.
And the future?
The associate researcher role is a great balance between action and reflection. I couldn’t see myself confined to an office all day—I need the hands-on work and the human interaction.
For Camille, IRCM is much more than a workplace: it’s a space where science meets humanity, and where every day is driven by passion.
Yes, the hours can be long—but when you love what you do, it’s worth it.
Thank you, Camille, for your spark.
