About IMC²

The societal challenges related to cybersecurity require multidisciplinary forces, authentic collaboration, cutting-edge expertise, and a greater capacity for impact from the academic world.

The beginning: From an inspiring vision to the launch of an Institute grounded in the relevance of its actions

The beginning: From an inspiring vision to the launch of an Institute grounded in the relevance of its actions

Driven by the vision of fostering an innovative and cyber resilient society through the mobilization of multidisciplinary forces, the Multidisciplinary Institute for Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience (IMC2) was established in 2023 under the leadership of the Department of Computer Engineering and Software Engineering at Polytechnique Montréal, in collaboration with the Université de Montréal and HEC Montréal.

With the addition of the Université du Québec en Outaouais in 2025, IMC2 now brings together more than fifty professors and their research teams from fifteen different academic departments. The pooling of IMC2‘s multidisciplinary expertise represents a leading force in Canada.

Productive collaborations, focused on addressing today's challenges and shaping tomorrow's solutions

The excellence of the existing cybersecurity network in Quebec and Canada is undeniable, whether at the academic, industrial or governmental level. The unique positioning of IMC2 makes it a singular academic convergence crossroads, which will allow the pooling and strengthening of complementary synergies within the ecosystem.

Since its inception, the Institute has been able to count on strong relationships with many leading partners in the cybersecurity ecosystem.

Our four pillars

IMC2‘s mission is based on a structure designed to address major societal challenges in cybersecurity, in collaboration with the entire ecosystem.

Education, research, public policies, and innovation are its pillars. In synergy with its partners, the Institute fosters a culture of excellence in both engineering and social sciences in cybersecurity, by enhancing scientific and industrial talents in the field; developing world-class knowledge and technologies; playing an active role in the development of the Canadian cybersecurity industry; and accelerating the adoption of cyber-conscious and responsible behaviors.

Research

  • Develop and successfully lead cutting-edge multidisciplinary projects
  • Attract, train, and retain world-class researchers
  • Work on current issues while keeping an eye on future challenges

Public Policies

  • Contribute to the development of a cyber-aware and cyber-responsible society
  • Educate, inform, guide, and empower citizens and decision-makers
  • Act as an observatory and monitor the evolution of cyber threats

Education

  • Deploy multidisciplinary, interfaculty, and interuniversity training pathways
  • Develop trainings in emerging fields
  • Offer certifying continuing education paths and short development modules
  • Share and pool together programs, courses, and expertise

Innovation

  • Leverage and share data and knowledge
  • Facilitate the maturity increase of technologies studies and ensure a relevant and efficient transfer to the ecosystem
  • Encourage and support entrepreneurial innovation

Our values

Our Institute champions collaboration and transparency as foundational principles, fostering the dedication and rigor of its members to implement initiatives for the common good.

The swift progression of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, post-quantum and 5G underscores the importance of establishing an academic institute grounded in openness and collaboration.

Bringing together the ecosystem’s academic forces in a collaborative spirit makes it possible to address a broad range of technological and human challenges facing various economic fields such as aeronautics, finance, and maritime transport.

The key element: a multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral approach

FAQ

Can’t find the answer to your questions? Contact us!

IMC2‘s vision resonates with me. How can I contribute?

We’d love to discuss with you. Get in touch!

Does the Institute provide networking opportunities?

Our researchers participate in numerous cybersecurity events. Also, don’t miss our research seminars, which offer a friendly ‘lunch-and-learn’ opportunity to delve into current topics in the field.

What expertise areas does IMC2 cover?

With over fifty researchers involved in the Institute and a strong network of partners, IMC2 spans a wide range of disciplines. Check out Our Team‘s section to learn more.

Does the Institute offer training in cybersecurity and cyber resilience?

 

Through its Education pillar, the IMC2 supports the development and enhancement of training programs for its academic members. Visit the websites of Polytechnique Montréal, the Université de Montréal, HEC Montréal, and the Université du Québec en Outaouais to discover the breadth of training offerings at all levels.

You can also contact us directly to discuss your specific needs, or consult our Directory of cybersecurity trainings in Québec.