Science & Technology Australia (STA) congratulates STA President, research rock star and commercialisation champion Professor Sharath Sriram on his appointment as the new Chief Scientist of Western Australia.
Professor Sriram's three-year appointment as the state's independent scientific advisor was announced today by Western Australia Premier Roger Cook and the Hon Stephen Dawson MLC, Minister for Science and Innovation and the Digital Economy. He takes over from Professor Peter Klinken AC who held the role for 11 years, delivering quality and robust advice - STA thanks him for this service and wishes him well in retirement.
Professor Sriram - a researcher at RMIT - has been President of Science & Technology Australia since 2023. He is a visionary 'connector of commercialisation' with a strong track record of turning research into products and services, and an unrivalled understanding of Australia's science and technology strengths and capabilities.
In his role at RMIT, he has created more than $9 million in commercial partnerships, and spurred innovations including smart bedding products for aged-care support, a wearable device for continuous molecular monitoring, and miniature biosensors for monitoring respiratory illnesses.
His new role as the Chief Scientist of Western Australia will see him providing cross-portfolio independent science advice to the WA Government on key priorities and economic diversification, and promoting science and technology across government, communities and business. He will also work towards inspiring the young people of the state into science, as well as supporting diversity and inclusion in the STEM sector.
"Sharath is an outstanding and innovative Australian researcher who has the runs on the board taking great ideas through to product development and then turning them into economy-boosting businesses. He is also a great communicator of complex research insights into policy-making - he's a superb choice to be Western Australia's new Chief Scientist," said STA CEO Ryan Winn.
"The advice he'll offer to the Western Australia Government as part of his new role will ensure that state is getting the best possible science and technology guidance."
"Such is his incredible acumen and depth of skills, he will give the Western Australia Government a commercial advantage in developing the industries of the future."
"We look forward to seeing Western Australia power ahead in science and technology under his guidance."
Professor Sriram will continue as President of Science & Technology Australia until the completion of his term in November 2025.
