Since January 2026, Professor Guillaume de Lafontaine has been editor-in-chief of Écoscience journal, succeeding Hugo Asselin, who held the position for 15 years. This change marks a new chapter for the magazine, which continues its mission to disseminate knowledge in the field of ecology.

An international journal

Écoscience is an interdisciplinary and international journal published by Université Laval and the Centre for Northern Studies that covers all aspects of ecology. Founded in 1994 by Serge Payette, then professor of biology at Université Laval and member of the Centre for Northern Studies, Écoscience publishes high-quality original work on ecological processes and patterns at different spatial and temporal scales and at different levels of biological organization. Manuscripts, accepted in English and French, undergo rigorous peer review by independent experts. The journal has more than 30,000 views and downloads annually and an impact factor of 1.3 (2024).

A transition marked by an exceptional contribution

Guillaume de Lafontaine is a professor in the Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Geography at UQAR and holds the Canada Research Chair in Integrative Biology of Northern Flora. He is recognized for his work on plant ecology, evolutionary ecology, biogeography, and the responses of cold-climate flora to environmental change. His research provides a better understanding of northern ecosystems and their transformation.

He succeeds Hugo Asselin, professor at the University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, whose contribution to Écoscience has been significant. With more than 25 years at the journal, including 15 years as editor-in-chief, Hugo Asselin ensured the journal's stability, credibility, and international reach. His commitment helped improve the quality of publications and strengthen Écoscience's position among ecology journals.

An invitation to the scientific community

Under this new leadership, Ecoscience will continue to be a preferred medium for disseminating research. Researchers are invited to submit their manuscripts and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in ecology.

As part of this editorial change, the journal is also launching a call for applications for assistant editor positions. Interested individuals with expertise in the fields covered by Écoscience and experience in peer review are invited to submit their applications (CV and short cover letter) to ecoscience@uqar.ca. Joining the editorial team is a unique opportunity to contribute to the journal's influence and support the dissemination of high-quality scientific work.