Science for all at the Armand-Frappier Health Museum

A brief history
by Tourisme Laval

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Despite training in microbiology and immunology, Guylaine Archambault chose not to pursue a career in the laboratory. Instead, in 1997, her passion for communications led her to offer her services to the Musée de la santé Armand-Frappier as an animator. Since 2005, Guylaine has been at the helm of the museum, Quebec's only museum dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.

In small jars, the best ointments

As soon as you arrive, you'll be greeted by a scientific animator who will accompany you throughout your discoveries. His mission: to provide you with a personalized experience tailored to your interests, and to pass on his passion for the life sciences.

At the end of your visit to the exhibition, the guide will suggest that you continue your learning by becoming a scientist yourself. You'll then put on a lab coat and take part in laboratory workshops. "We are fortunate to be able to offer visitors, young and old, unique activities during which they can handle a microscope or perform microbiological analyses, and, who knows, maybe develop a real passion for science," says Guylaine Archambault, General Manager of the Musée de la santé Armand-Frappier.

Photo credit: Image au Carré

A new address for the Musée Armand-Frappier

The Musée de la santé Armand-Frappier, newly relocated to Centropolis and now adjacent to Cosmodome, has tripled its surface area and modernized its building. The new facilities feature two interactive science exhibition halls. One room is dedicated to a permanent exhibition that will help the public to become aware of human health issues, understand them better and take concrete action. The other houses a temporary exhibition, whose contents will be renewed each year. The museum also boasts four educational laboratories that will enable visitors to pursue their discoveries by carrying out various manipulations. "We're very proud of this project, which is, in a way, the culmination of our sustained growth over the past few years. The richness and rigor of our programming, the many partnerships established with major institutions and the professionalization of our team confirm our position as a leader in scientific museology. This new location will enable us to pursue our mission, particularly with young people, and to better welcome our clientele," concludes Musée Armand-Frappier's General Manager.

Did you know that?

• Armand Frappier, a pioneer in preventive medicine, is credited with producing vaccines against many infectious diseases, including tuberculosis.
• In 1997, Guylaine Archambault became the first full-time employee of the Musée Armand-Frappier.
• Today, the museum has 12 full-time employees and 12 on-call and seasonal scientific animators.
• 27,333 visitors and participants: attendance at the Musée Armand-Frappier in 2018.
• For budding scientists aged 6 to 13, the museum offers 8 scientific day camp programs and the Jeunes au labo! workshops for fun and... scientific Saturdays.

Cover photo credit: Lawrence Dupuis