At Umiujaq, architecture in service of northern research

STGM Architecture is proud to contribute to the future research station of Université Laval's Centre for Northern Studies (CEN) in Umiujaq, Nunavik. Scheduled for completion by 2028, this new facility will support research on permafrost and the impacts of climate change on Arctic and subarctic ecosystems while fostering an approach rooted in the realities of the North.

A place designed to advance knowledge

For more than 60 years, the Centre for Northern Studies has built internationally recognized expertise in northern environments. Today, its mission extends beyond scientific research. It is grounded in the co-production of knowledge with northern communities and organizations to address local challenges and develop solutions that reflect their realities.

The new station will provide researchers with spaces specifically designed to support their work in a demanding climate while creating opportunities for dialogue and collaboration with local communities.

Architecture that encourages meaningful exchange

In the context of northern research, Inuit communities are among the most studied Indigenous peoples in the world, yet they have not always been fully involved in setting research priorities, governance, or benefiting from research outcomes. This reality highlights the importance of conducting research with social awareness and respect for communities, their knowledge, and the environments in which it takes place.

In Umiujaq, this approach will be reflected through the integration of a community learning space designed to support the co-creation of research, knowledge sharing, and meaningful exchanges between researchers and Inuit partners. More than a research facility, the future station has been conceived as a place where dialogue and collaboration will contribute to advancing knowledge.

A living laboratory for northern technologies

Beyond its scientific mission, the station itself will serve as a living laboratory. The building will provide an opportunity to evaluate technologies adapted to northern conditions, including solar energy systems and biomass heating.

The knowledge generated through these initiatives will help assess the performance of these technologies in a subarctic environment while supporting the development of solutions that reduce dependence on fossil fuels and strengthen the energy resilience of northern communities.

Designing with the territory

By contributing to this new research station, we are helping create a place where architecture supports not only the advancement of knowledge but also the development of meaningful solutions for northern communities.

Learn more about the project. Here is the press release from the Ministère de l'Économie, de l'Innovation et de l'Énergie.