Dr. Momar Ndao recently received the “Ambassadeurs du Palais des congrès de Montréal” award for hosting the International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA) 2026 in Montreal. This award is a prestigious recognition given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the city’s reputation as a leading destination for international conferences and events. "This award not only celebrates my success in winning the bid for ICOPA 2026 but also places me in the ranks of over 350 luminaries from the scientific, academic, and research sectors who have previously been recognized for their contributions," says Dr. Ndao.
What are your reasons for doing this kind of work?
As a dedicated member of the parasitology community, my vision for hosting the International Congress of Parasitology (ICOPA) 2026 in Montreal is driven by a commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering global collaboration. This congress will serve as a platform to showcase cutting-edge discoveries, discuss innovative treatment strategies, and unite experts from diverse backgrounds to tackle the pressing challenges in parasitology. By bringing together leading scientists, we aim to i) accelerate the development of effective interventions against parasitic diseases that affect millions worldwide, ii) inspire students and early-career scientists, providing them with invaluable exposure to the field’s latest advancements and networking opportunities, iii) create a stimulating environment that encourages excellence and innovation in parasitology research and iv) build partnerships across academia, industry, and public health sectors to achieve a common goal: eradicating parasitic diseases.
What does this award represent for you?
The “Ambassadeurs du Palais des congrès de Montréal” award is a prestigious recognition given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the city’s reputation as a leading destination for international conferences and events. As an ambassador, you are honored for your active involvement in promoting Montreal and attracting major gatherings to the city, which in turn generates substantial economic and intellectual benefits for the Province of Quebec. It acknowledges my dedication to the development of business tourism and the exchange of knowledge and expertise across borders. It is a testament to my leadership and commitment to advancing the field of parasitology and fostering a spirit of collaboration within the global community.
About Dr. Momar Ndao
Dr. Momar Ndao completed his veterinary studies in Senegal, and Diploma in Tropical Medicine, MSc and PhD in International Health and Tropical Diseases at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp. He is currently an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Division of Infectious Diseases. He has served as Director of the Canadian National Reference Centre for Parasitology (NRCP) since 2002. He is the Co-Director of the McGill Interdisciplinary Initiative in Infection and Immunity (MI4). He has been Chair of the Facility Animal Care Committee (FACC) Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre Glen site. Selected as a member of the Expert Working Group for the Canadian Biosafety Standards and Guidelines, and Co-chair of the Food and Environmental Parasitology Network (Health Canada). He has been the Vice President of the World Federation of Parasitologists since 2022, a member of the Executive Board of the International Federation of Tropical Medicine since 2017, and a member of the Scientific Committee of Pasteur Institute since 2016, among others.