Postdoctoral Scholar - Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (CD)

Role details

The Duval Lab in the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to conduct research in the field of separation science and technology. Our research group has developed unique expertise in the design, prototyping, and implementation of rotating packed bed contactors for resource recovery and water treatment. This technology fits in the broader scope of our laboratory research which focuses on developing new materials and processes for critical metals and elements.

The postdoctoral researcher will work collaboratively with our university-, national laboratory- and industry-partners to design ion-exchange and adsorption separation processes using this prototyped equipment. This research will occur in the brand-new Roger E. Suzi Interdisciplinary Research Building on Case Western Reserve University’s campus as part of the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing cluster.

Responsibilities and Duties: Experimental work will include synthesizing and testing adsorptive resins for metals separations, measuring resin uptake and selectivity using batch and on-column measurements (commercial and synthesized in lab), modifying prototype designs to meet process needs, selecting appropriate solution-phase and resin chemistries to improve the separation metrics of throughput, productivity, selectivity, and/or product capture. This postdoctoral researcher will join a sub-group in our lab dedicated to this class of process equipment forming a community of practice.

The individual is expected to complete technical milestones, participate in weekly meetings with collaborators, contribute to regular project reporting, attend annual review meetings, and lead the characterization efforts at CWRU. The postdoctoral scholar will report directly to PI Christine Duval. In compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary range for this position is $55,000 -$62,652. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer.

Postdocs receive individual and family healthcare benefits, life insurance, and employee assistance.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field. Experience with more than one of the following: 1) polymer synthesis and characterization 2) separation process design, 3) radiochemistry, or 4) characterization of adsorbent materials Excellent written and oral communication skills Strong interest in research with commercialization potential Ability to work in a fast-paced research environment and meet technical milestones Must be eligible to work in the United States