Armel Zambou Kenfack and Christopher Gagnon receive the 2026 Chisholm Prize for forestry innovation!
Congratulations to Armel Zambou Kenfack and Christopher Gagnon, recipients of the 2026 Chisholm Prizes for forestry innovation. This prestigious distinction, awarded by the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC), highlights emerging leaders whose research work makes a significant contribution to innovation in the Canadian forestry sector. Each receives a $2,500 scholarship in recognition of the excellence of their research and their contribution to innovation in the Canadian forestry industry.
These prestigious awards highlight emerging researchers whose work stands out for its creativity, scientific rigor, and tangible impact on the industry. The 2026 edition, themed “promoting the use and adoption of Canadian forest products through innovation across the entire value chain,” emphasizes the importance of increasing the sector’s performance, efficiency, and competitiveness.
The selection of Armel Zambou Kenfack and Christopher Gagnon reflects the dynamism of forestry research in Canada and the commitment of the next generation of scientists to addressing the environmental, technological, and industrial challenges facing the industry.
Armel Zambou Kenfack: optimizing the energy performance of industrial processes
A doctoral student in wood engineering and bio-based materials at Université Laval, Armel Zambou Kenfack conducts innovative research aimed at improving the energy efficiency of industrial processes, particularly in the production of medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
Under the supervision of Professors Rémi Georges and Michael Morin (UL), his work focuses on optimizing the fiber refining stage, one of the most energy-intensive phases of the process. By combining machine learning and advanced optimization methods, he develops predictive models based on real industrial data. These tools make it possible to adjust production parameters in order to reduce energy consumption while maintaining fiber quality.
The expected outcomes of his research are promising: a reduction of more than 25% in energy consumption could be achieved. This potential represents a major lever for reducing production costs and improving the sustainability of industrial processes. His work concretely illustrates how technological innovation can support more responsible production and enhance the competitiveness of the Canadian forestry sector internationally.
Originally from Cameroon, Armel Zambou Kenfack holds a background in energy physics and environmental studies, with a specialization in bio-based materials obtained at the University of Yaoundé I. His research lies at the intersection of process engineering, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. His doctoral project has already led to several papers under review, confirming the scope and relevance of his contributions.
Christopher Gagnon: improving the reliability of mass timber structures
A master’s student in wood engineering and bio-based materials at Université Laval, Christopher Gagnon focuses on a key issue for the future of wood construction: the performance of structural connections.
Under the supervision of Professors Alexander Salenikovich and Thomas Tannert (UNBC), his research examines the strengthening of dowel-type connections in mass timber structures through the strategic addition of self-tapping screws. This approach aims to improve connection reliability, a key factor that still limits the broader adoption of wood in modern construction.
Preliminary results are highly promising, showing an increase in strength of up to 45% and an improvement in ductility of up to 60%. By reducing the risk of brittle failure and improving overall connection performance, this work helps make timber structures safer, more durable, and more competitive with traditional materials.
Originally from the Montérégie region, Christopher holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Sherbrooke, with a specialization in structural design. His work contributes to the development of innovative solutions for sustainable construction, particularly in the context of the growing use of tall timber buildings.
Congratulations to the award recipients for this well-deserved recognition.
Together, the work of Christopher Gagnon and Armel Zambou Kenfack highlights the essential role of emerging scientists in transforming the forestry sector. Through their rigor and creativity, they are helping to build a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable industry.