Professors Roger Hernández and Denis Rodrigue are among the top 2% of researchers in the world!
We are proud to announce that two researchers affiliated with the with the Renewable Materials Research Centre (RMRC) are listed in the prestigious ranking of the top 2% of researchers worldwide, according to the esteemed ranking established by Stanford University and the scientific publisher Elsevier. This distinction highlights the global impact and exceptional quality of their research work.
Congratulations to Roger Hernández, a member of the CRMR and the NSERC Strategic Network on Forest Management for Value-Added Products, who has made this list for the fifth consecutive year. This international recognition not only reflects his excellence as a researcher but also the significant impact of his work in the materials sector. A world-renowned expert, Professor Hernández has particularly distinguished himself through his innovative research in various fields of wood science. He has greatly contributed to the advancement of wood technology and its applications through studies on wood machining, wood physics, secondary processing of wood products, and the valorization of boreal, temperate, and tropical species. His research covers a wide range of themes, with a particular emphasis on eco-responsible wood machining and derived products, extending the lifespan of cutting tools, the physico-mechanical behavior of tropical woods, and the variation of physical and mechanical properties within the tree. These works are of crucial importance to the global forestry industry, as they contribute to sustainability and innovation in resource management and processing practices.
Congratulations also to Denis Rodrigue, a full professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and a research associate at CRMR, honored in this prestigious list. This distinction underscores his remarkable contributions to the field of materials science, particularly in polymer engineering. One of Professor Rodrigue’s main research focuses is the development of eco-friendly and sustainable polymers in response to the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility. He works notably on the valorization of agricultural plastics, the recycling of flexible plastics, and the revalorization of used tire fibers into finished products. These projects aim to reduce the ecological footprint of polymer production while maintaining high-performance standards. His research on the production of carbon fibers using recycled or bio-sourced precursors is particularly promising, as it offers innovative solutions for utilizing materials that would otherwise be considered waste. Professor Rodrigue is also involved in the Center for Research on High-Performance Polymer and Composite Systems, where he collaborates with other researchers to develop advanced polymer and composite systems that meet current industry needs. His work, which combines innovation and pragmatism, provides beneficial solutions across sectors ranging from packaging to construction.
This international recognition is a tremendous source of pride for the entire university community. It reflects our researchers’ unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of materials and their significant contribution to society through high-potential discoveries. Congratulations to Professors Roger Hernández and Denis Rodrigue for this remarkable achievement that highlights the excellence of research at Laval University and the CRMR! A big thank you for your invaluable contribution to the CRMR.
 By: Bouslimi Besma