Cybersecurity: The Université de Sherbrooke invests in training and interdisciplinary and partnership research

Longueuil, le 02 octobre 2024 – In collaboration with major philanthropic partners, UdeS is launching the Intact Cybersecurity Hub. The goal is to harness interdisciplinarity and a collaborative “university-company-organization” model to deal with the onslaught of cyber threats.

UdeS is mobilizing its research and training resources to tackle a serious problem that requires immediate innovative solutions.

Officially launched on October 2 at the Longueuil Campus, the Intact Cybersecurity Hub combines the scientific and technological expertise of specialists from five UdeS faculties.

The pole also includes three impressive allies who care about protecting data and digital environments: Intact Financial Corporation, Sherweb and Loto-Québec. Their generous contributions of $4.2 million have made this pole possible.

Headed by Scientific Director Marc Frappier, the pole will develop a true shield against cyber threats thanks to partnership research, cross-cutting disciplines, and the training of future cybersecurity professionals.

Comprehensive solutions to complex challenges

Twelve specialists from different backgrounds will work together to develop knowledge and train future qualified professionals who can counter cyber threats against the IT systems of private and public organizations.

“If we want effective and applicable results, we have to consider all possible solutions. This pole will examine cybersecurity from many angles ─ such as education, legislation, ethics, politics, management – because at UdeS we know that truly innovative solutions only emerge when we break down barriers between different types of expertise”, said UdeS Rector Pierre Cossette.

Teams at UdeS will take on the complex challenge of cybersecurity through the University’s recognized research strength of interdisciplinarity.

Teaming up with industry

Entirely funded by donations from Intact ($2.25 million), Sherweb ($1.5 million) and Loto-Québec ($450,000), the pole will also benefit from partnership research. This approach is beneficial at accelerating the process from ideation to application, something that UdeS excels at thanks to its long tradition of partnerships with different spheres.

“Our generous donors have put us in a position to address a major issue that concerns and can affect every part of our entire society. Their support will not only advance our research and programs but also help future generations realize their full potential. I thank them for believing in our mission”, said Armand Soldera, Dean of the Faculty of Science at UdeS.

For organizations, there are many benefits to turning to universities to create safeguards against cyber threats.

“This partnership is not just about technology; it’s about people. Collaboration and sharing practices and knowledge are essential to stay updated with the latest innovations –- and to build a more cybersecure and resilient future for our company, our customers and our communities”, said Patrick Barbeau, Chief Operating Officer, Intact Financial Corporation.

“What drives Sherweb’s strategy is delivering the best cybersecurity solutions and informing our clients about the importance of investing in protecting their businesses. This is our priority, and we believe that research, innovation and collaboration with universities and the private sector are essential if we are to keep serving as a leader in our industry. Through our partnership with the Université de Sherbrooke and its cybersecurity pole, we are working to create a safer and more secure online ecosystem for everyone”, said Matthew Cassar, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer, Sherweb.

“Cybersecurity is the key issue for today’s organizations, and that goes for Loto-Québec. Protecting our systems upholds not only the integrity of our operations but also our customers’ trust. We are therefore committed to working with this pole of cyber expertise to develop increasingly secure digital environments”, said Jean-François Bergeron, President and CEO of Loto-Québec.

This pole will also leverage existing programs at UdeS to let students in both regular coursework and research gain comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of cybersecurity as a field. Part of these philanthropic donations will go toward graduate and postgraduate scholarships.

About the Intact Cybersecurity Hub at the Université de Sherbrooke

This pole of expertise includes the following:

• Research Chair in Post-Quantum Cybersecurity, headed by Marc Frappier, Professor in the Department of Informatics at UdeS.
• Interdisciplinary Research Group on Cybersecurity (CRICUS).
• A highly specialized course offered at the Centre de formation en technologie de l’information (CeFTI), located at the Longueuil Campus.
• An upcoming project to offer specialized cybersecurity services through an institutional research platform.

The Intact Cybersecurity Hub is funded by the UdeS Major Campaign

Since its founding, the Université de Sherbrooke has been innovating, pushing boundaries and practices, and making forward-looking decisions. These orientations have forged its identity and are a source of pride for the university’s entire community. While drawing from this history, the institution is embarking on the next chapter of its development with its Major Fundraising Campaign, Choosing to Change the Future. The most ambitious in UdeS history, this $250-million campaign will support over 150 inspiring projects that provide concrete solutions to today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.

Research to the power of ten!

It is no accident that the Université de Sherbrooke stands out in research. The secret to its success has been the strategic blend of its three signature strengths: partnership, interdisciplinarity, and the pooling of resources. Learn more about what helped UdeS rank 10th for research in Canada.

Additionnal information

Website of the Intact Cybersecurity Hub of the Université de Sherbrooke

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Information:

Geneviève Lussier, Media Relations Advisor
Communications Department | Université de Sherbrooke
medias@USherbrooke.ca | 819-821-8000, extension 65472