CQDM invites you to its next Connect-BIO, a must-attend event bringing together researchers and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of preclinical research, focused on innovative and responsible approaches aimed at reducing the use of animals.
On the agenda:
🔬 Hear from renowned expert speakers
💬 Engage in discussions, ask questions, and expand your knowledge
🤝 Wrap up the day with a networking cocktail — a great opportunity to grow your network and connect with the ecosystem, generously offered by our partner ROBIC
🎙️ Panelists
Alexandre Le Bouthillier, Ph.D.
Co-founder and Partner at Linearis, Alexandre Le Bouthillier brings over 20 years of experience in IT and artificial intelligence to enhance healthcare diagnostics and treatments. Holding a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Université de Montréal, he serves on the boards of Mila, IVADO, MEDTEQ+, envisAGE, and Montréal InVivo. A visionary leader, he is dedicated to building a collaborative and sustainable health ecosystem.
Dean K. Smith, Ph.D.
Dr. Dean Smith, Senior Scientific Advisor at Health Canada, has over 25 years of experience in research and regulatory science focused on biologics and vaccines. He represents Health Canada at the WHO and the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines, contributing to the development of international guidance. An immunologist by training, his research at the University of Alberta explored vaccine antigens and gene therapy approaches.
Margaret Magdesian, Ph.D.
Dr. Margaret Magdesian, Founder and CEO of Ananda Devices, develops groundbreaking technologies to reduce animal use in neurological research. Her collaboration with the U.S. FDA led to the qualification of a New Approach Method (NAM) replacing mouse bioassays. Winner of 27 international awards, she serves on several scientific boards and actively champions women in science and entrepreneurship.
Mark Aquilino, Ph.D.
As CEO of Epiloid Biotechnology, Dr. Mark Aquilino is a biomedical engineer specializing in 3D tissue engineering and machine learning applied to preclinical research. His work integrates human electrophysiology with brain organoid models to accelerate drug discovery. He operates at the intersection of science, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Vincent Ling, Ph.D.
Dr. Vincent Ling, Chief Business Officer at Morphocell Technologies, brings over 30 years of experience in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development. He has led teams in stem cell biology, genomics, and regenerative medicine at companies including Takeda, Wyeth, and Neurotech. His expertise bridges science, strategy, and innovation in health.
📅 Date: November 20, 2025
🕔 Time: 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Grande Bibliothèque de BAnQ, 475 Boulevard de Maisonneuve Est, Montreal, QC H2L 4E3
👉 Register now: Connect-Bio Réinventer le préclinique pour réduire l’usage animal Billets, jeu, 20 nov. 2025 à 16:30 | Eventbrite
Why attend?
- Meet key researchers and entrepreneurs in the ecosystem
- Exchange innovative ideas and explore new opportunities with CQDM members
- Discover the future of preclinical research
📌 Save the date — we look forward to welcoming you!
