Denis Laurendeau

A specialist in computer vision and 3D digitization, Professor Denis Laurendeau has played a central role in developing Quebec’s expertise in this field. His work at the intersection of university research and industrial innovation has greatly contributed to Quebec’s international standing in technology.

Building bridges between research, industry, and society

A professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering since 1987, Professor Laurendeau has established and developed major research structures that have led to significant scientific advances. After directing the Computer Vision and Systems Laboratory (CVSL)—which became a major hub for applied research under his leadership—he played a central role in creating the Robotics, Vision and Machine Intelligence Research Centre (CeRVIM). As a founding researcher of the REPARTI strategic cluster, which fosters inter-institutional and multidisciplinary collaboration in robotics, vision, and artificial intelligence, Professor Laurendeau also played a key role in creating the Institute Intelligence and Data (IID), a flagship institute that brings together more than 80 core researchers and 40 collaborators from a wide range of disciplines. He also served as interim director of the institute, which strengthens the integration of artificial intelligence across the university.

Believing that science should serve society in concrete ways, Professor Laurendeau has built lasting bridges between basic research and the industrial world. In 2009, a patent of which he is co-holder was acquired by the company Creaform. This technology, now integrated into 3D sensors sold worldwide, led to the creation of the NSERC–Creaform Industrial Research Chair on 3D Scanning, which he directed for ten years.

Professor Laurendeau’s collaborative spirit and strong reputation have led to fruitful partnerships both within Université Laval and through large-scale international projects. Within the university, he has worked with colleagues in fields as diverse as psychology, forestry, rehabilitation, and music, while also attracting the world’s leading international conference on 3D vision to Québec—further strengthening the city’s position as a global centre of expertise. 

He served on the executive committee of the International Association for Pattern Recognition (IAPR) from 2004 to 2012 and was president of the association from 2010 to 2012.

A dedicated educator

Professor Laurendeau has always sought to innovate in his teaching and to offer learning experiences closely tied to practice—for example, through the course Design III, which focuses on building a robotic system using computer vision to help students push the boundaries of engineering. Throughout his career, he has directed or co-directed 31 doctoral dissertations and 85 master’s theses, while remaining deeply involved in university life as a member of Université Laval’s University Council and Ethics Committee. 

At the same time, he has also contributed to advancing technological education beyond the university, serving for more than 10 years on the board of directors of the Centre en imagerie numérique et médias interactifs, affiliated with Cégep de Sainte-Foy. 
His commitment to science has been recognized through numerous distinctions. In addition to being a Fellow of Engineers Canada and of the Canadian Academy of Engineering, he was named an ambassador for the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies.

Professor Laurendeau’s career perfectly illustrates how a spirit of innovation and collaboration can make Québec a technological hub. He will continue to inspire generations of innovators to put advanced technology at the service of society.