CNL’s new Vice-President of Science and Technology honoured for distinguished contributions in engineering, waste management and advanced nuclear fuel cycles
Chalk River, ON – February 18, 2026 – Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that its new Vice-President (VP) of Science & Technology (S&T), Dr. Monica Regalbuto, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer, Dr. Regalbuto was honoured with NAE membership for her distinguished contributions to the engineering profession, the safe management and disposal of high-level nuclear wastes, and the development of advanced nuclear fuel cycles.
As VP of S&T, Dr. Regalbuto oversees CNL’s research projects and programs, including the development of next-generation reactor technologies, support for the advancement of small modular reactor technology, the continued delivery of its advanced fuels, hydrogen and fusion programs, and the work in isotope production and health sciences. Dr. Regalbuto previously served as U.S. Department of Energy’s Assistant Secretary for Environmental Management, with international recognition that includes participation on the IAEA Standing Advisory Group on Nuclear Energy, and she most recently led development of the U.S. nuclear fuel cycle strategy at the Idaho National Laboratory.
“On behalf of all of her colleagues at CNL, I want to extend my congratulations to Monica, a valuable member of our senior executive team who has had an exceptional career advancing nuclear research, particularly nuclear fuel cycle technologies,” commented Dennis Carr, CNL’s President and CEO. “Given her many professional accomplishments in a career spanning over 35 years, CNL is incredibly fortunate to have her leadership and insight guiding our research and development activities in clean energy, health sciences and nuclear safety and security. Finally, through my own experience working closely with her, it comes as no surprise that Monica has realized this incredible achievement. Congratulations, Monica.”
“AECL extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Regalbuto for this prestigious achievement,” said Dr. Amy Gottschling, AECL Vice President of Science, Technology and Commercial Oversight. “This is yet another example of the incredible talent at the Chalk River Laboratories, and a further reminder of the contributions of women leaders in our field. We are excited to see the energy and ideas that Monica will bring to our research program, for the benefit of all Canadians”.
Founded in 1964, the NAE provides independent, objective analysis and advice, offering leadership and insights to address complex challenges. Election to the NAE is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer, honouring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to engineering research, practice, or education. Members are also recognized for pioneering new and developing fields of technology, making major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or developing and implementing innovative approaches to engineering education. Overall, NAE members are among the world’s most accomplished engineers from business, academia, and government.
Members are also elected by their peers, demonstrating the widespread respect and recognition for Dr. Regalbuto’s career and many accomplishments. The ballot for the Class of 2026 was finalized in December of 2025, with the final vote taking place earlier this year in January. In total, 130 new members and 28 new international members were elected to the Class of 2026, including Dr. Regalbuto. These leaders in engineering will be formally inducted into the NAE during its Annual Meeting in the fall.
To learn more about CNL, including its science and technology programs and projects, please visit www.cnl.ca. More information on the National Academy of Engineering can be found at www.nae.edu.
About CNL
As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance – restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.
By leveraging the assets owned by AECL, CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.
To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca.
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