Dr. Marie-Josée Dumont is Assistant Professor in the Department of Bioresource Engineering at the Macdonald Campus of McGill University. She obtained a PhD in Bioresource and Food Engineering from the University of Alberta, a Master degree in Chemical Engineering and a Bachelor degree in Food Engineering from Université Laval. One of her research focuses is to target high value specialty chemicals in order to accelerate the development of a strong bioeconomy. For example, her research group is currently focusing on the study of microwave-assisted organic synthesis of platform molecules HMF like hydroxymethylfurfural and levulinic using starchy feedstock. These molecules are further transformed into bio-based polymers. Another research focus is to synthesize bio-based hydrogels, aerogels and cryogels. These polymers are highly cross-linked macromolecules which can undergo a change in volume (swelling/shrinkage) based on changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH, ionic strength and the nature of the solvent. They are recognized for their hygienic applications (e.g. diapers) but are also used for tissue engineering, drug delivery and micro-fluidic control.

Dr. Dumont`s research interests are related to the valorisation of agricultural feedstocks that are considered as industrial feedstocks or agricultural wastes. More specifically, she is interested in their characterisation in order to identify the potential of these materials. Further to the characterisation, their transformation into bio-based chemicals and materials for commodity and specialized applications are targeted. These materials are to be transformed into (but not limited to) polymers, surfactant, bio-based fuels, and platform chemicals. Dr. Dumont is seeking students in the fields of bioresource engineering, bio-transformation, polymer science, organic and organometallic chemistry, and related fields.