Frédéric Laberge

Frédéric Laberge is an Associate Professor in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Guelph, located within the College of Biological Science. His research focuses on comparative cognition, neurobiology, and ecophysiology, with a particular emphasis on amphibians and fish as model organisms. He leads a lab that integrates behavioral assays, anatomical studies, molecular techniques, and field ecology to explore brain structure-function relationships, environmental adaptations, and indicators of wildlife health.

Education:

• B.Sc. Biology, Laval University, 1996
• M.Sc. Metabolic Physiology, Laval University, 1998
• Ph.D. Neurobiology of Fish Olfaction, University of Manitoba, 2002

Research Interests: Dr. Laberge investigates how brain structure and function influence animal behavior and ecological success. Key themes include:

• Evolutionary drivers of brain size and cognitive abilities
• Neuroecology linking brain traits to environmental challenges
• Development of biomarkers for aquatic ecosystem health (e.g., cortisol in fish scales)
• Behavioral plasticity in amphibians and fish under stress

Lab and Collaborations: The Laberge Lab collaborates widely on projects combining lab-based experiments with field studies. Their work often intersects with colleagues in ecology, physiology, and environmental science to address applied questions in conservation and neurobiology.

Teaching: Teaches ZOO*3000 - Comparative Histology (Fall 2024) and advises graduate students in PhD and MSc programs.