Isabelle Ouellet-Morin is an Associate Professor at the School of Criminology in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at the Université de Montréal. She also holds the Canada Research Chair in the Developmental Origins of Vulnerability and Resilience.

Her research examines the impact of victimization experiences (e.g., maltreatment and peer bullying) on the mental health and antisocial behavior of children, adolescents, and young adults. Beyond simply identifying the difficulties encountered, she aims to pinpoint the mechanisms underlying the vulnerability and resilience of these young individuals, thereby contributing to more effectively supporting their transition to school, adolescence, and adulthood.

Her research program is situated in a field of study that focuses on the impact of victimization experiences occurring during a period when several brain regions related to emotional and behavioral regulation are still immature (i.e., 0-21 years). Her research specifically explores the epigenetic, hormonal (e.g., cortisol, inflammatory markers), and psychological (e.g., self-esteem, coping strategies) mechanisms that may weaken (or support) the adaptation of young people in their environment, compromise their mental health, or increase the risk of exhibiting antisocial behaviors following adversity. In parallel to studying the mechanisms underlying vulnerability, she seeks to understand why some young people demonstrate resilience despite the challenges they have faced. Finally, she contributes to the development of innovative digital tools aimed at promoting the resilience of children facing adverse life situations, helping them to develop their full potential.