Fostering a sense of community in times of physical distancing: this is what the CIC Montreal Local Section aims to achieve by launching a fantastic initiative, the “Virtual Networking 5à7” sessions. Once a month, you can join your colleagues and friends to listen to a talk before having a chat.

Talks are extremely informative and feature a varied selection of speakers from all walks of life. You can learn more about what it means to work as a industrial researcher, patent attorney, academic professor, and many more. A unique opportunity for PhD students to take a glimpse into different career paths.

Participants are then split into breakout rooms randomly – the best way to catch up with old colleagues while also making new professional contacts, all of this from the comfort of your home. Breaking the ice is very easy as everyone is friendly and welcoming: get ready to practice your interpersonal skills! The conversations I have had have always been stimulating and meaningful. These networking sessions are quality time spent with the colleagues, friends, and fellow chemists that you can’t meet in person. Yet another reason to come and network: don’t miss the next Virtual Networking 5à7.