WA Appoints New Chief Scientist To Drive Science And Innovation Agenda

Western Australia has a new Chief Scientist, with Professor Sharath Sriram today commencing a three-year term in the role.

A seasoned science and technology leader, Professor Sriram becomes the State’s fourth Chief Scientist, following the retirement of Professor Peter Klinken AC, who served for more than a decade.

Professor Sriram brings 20 years of experience spanning engineering, medical devices, science policy, and innovation strategy. He is currently President of Science and Technology Australia, the national peak body representing more than 135,000 scientists and technologists, and has served on its board since 2018.

In announcing the appointment, Premier Roger Cook said Professor Sriram’s expertise would help unlock further potential across WA’s science and technology sectors.

“My government is focused on ensuring the expertise and guidance from our Chief Scientist benefits the lives of Western Australians as well as helps plan for our future,” the Premier said.

Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson also welcomed the appointment, noting the Chief Scientist’s vital role in providing strategic advice to government on matters of science, technology, and innovation.

Professor Sriram succeeds Professor Peter Klinken AC, WA’s longest-serving Chief Scientist, who was appointed in 2014. During his tenure, Professor Klinken was instrumental in shaping several of the State’s major science and innovation strategies, including:

• WA’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan
• WA Innovation Strategy
• State STEM Skills Strategy — Future Jobs, Future Skills
• Health and Medical Life Sciences Industry Strategy
• Space Industries Strategy
• Diversify WA and Future State economic strategies
• Premier’s Science Awards and WA Science Hall of Fame
• Strategic advice on energy transition opportunities for WA

Professor Klinken has also been a passionate ambassador for science in the State, working to elevate public awareness of the importance of STEM education and skills to future industries and the WA economy.

Minister Dawson paid tribute to Professor Klinken’s contributions, describing them as “dedicated and enduring.”

Professor Sriram now takes the reins at a time when WA’s science and innovation ecosystem is growing rapidly, with emerging opportunities in areas such as space industries, health and medtech, energy transition, and advanced manufacturing.