François Giard is an Associate Professor at the School of Design at Université Laval, where he leads the Master’s program in design with thesis and the Art and animation Science program. He is also a researcher at the CERVO Research neuroscience Center and at OBVIA, the International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of Artificial Intelligence.

With a background in electrotechnics and art history, François began his career at Softimage as a specialist in computer-generated imagery before working in various production and visual effects studios. He later did a PhD in Art studies.

His research focuses on image systems and the role of representation in humans, with a particular interest in the use of generative artificial intelligence for animated film production. Notably, he directed his first film “La première image du monde”, entirely produced with AI tools.