Christine Duval

Christine Duval is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), part of the Case School of Engineering. She is also a member of the Cancer Imaging Program at the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research focuses on developing advanced materials and processes for separating f-elements (lanthanides and actinides) with applications in nuclear fuel recycling, nuclear medicine, and rare earth element recovery from waste streams. Duval holds a PhD from Clemson University (2017) and a BS from the University of Connecticut (2011).

Her research interests span membrane technology, materials science, and environmental engineering, with a particular emphasis on sustainable separations and nuclear waste management. Notably, her lab explores functionalized membranes and biomimetic materials for selective ion adsorption. Duval has received prestigious awards, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) in 2025, NSF CAREER Award in 2023, and the DOE Early Career Research Award in 2020.

Her publications highlight innovations in membrane design, electrochemical sensing, and actinide/lanthanide separations. The Duval Lab actively recruits PhD and postdoctoral researchers for Fall 2025, focusing on wastewater treatment and critical mineral recovery. The lab emphasizes community outreach, including educational events and collaborations with national labs like Argonne National Lab.

Awards and honors include recognition for mentoring, teaching, and contributions to the field of separations science. Duval’s work bridges fundamental research with practical applications, addressing global challenges in energy sustainability and environmental protection.