Academy Welcomes New CSIRO Head

The President of the Australian Academy of Science, Professor Brian Anderson has welcomed the appointment of the new head of CSIRO.

According to Professor Anderson, Dr Geoff Garrett brings to the position a wealth of relevant experience with a similar organisation in a country with many similar geographic, economic and climatic conditions. He has a record of effective leadership of a research organisation grappling with the social and economic challenges thrown up by a rapidly changing world. While the challenges face by Australia and South Africa are not identical, dealing with them requires many of the same resources and skills.

An important aim of the incumbent is the emphasis that he places on excellence in scientific research with a view to distinguishing a top research organisation from those that under-perform. Dr Garrett also stresses the importance of harnessing Australia's S&T resources to support improved national performance in innovation.